Mt. Annapurna I Expedition (8091m)

Annapurna is an enormous Himalayan massif, the tenth highest mountain in the world. In 1950, it became the first 8,000 meter mountain to be successfully climbed. It is located east of a great gorge cut through the Himalaya by the Kali Gandaki river. The mountain has glaciers on its western and north-western slopes which drain into this gorge. Annapurna is a sanskrit word which when broken down, would mean, “Sustenance” and “filled with”. So the name would translate into “The Goddess rich in Sustenance” or simply “The Provider”. It was first climbed by M. Herzog & L. Lachenal in 1950.

The Annapurna Himal and the Lamjung Himal stretch from the Kali Gandaki in the west to the Marshyangdi in the east. Four summits make up Annapurna with the entire massif forming a barrier on the northern side of the Pokhara Valley in Nepal. The main summit stands to the west of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Little was known about the mountain until 1949 when Dr. A. Heim from the windows of a Dakora aircraft viewed Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The aircraft could not fly high enough for proper observation or for photographs, still the next year, June 3rd 1950, Annapurna was conquered. It was the first eight thousanders to be climbed, this feat was accomplished by the French. However, all the routes on the mountain pose severe difficulties and hence it is probably why fewer climbers have reached the summit in comparison to other 80000m peaks.

A stunning peak lies on the western part of Nepal. This mountain had summated by Maurice Herzog and his expedition team on the date of 3 June 1950. Probably, the team was the first to set a new record in the world mountaineering history by successfully climbing a peak over 8,000meters. The team was first who granted permission to attempt to climb Mt. Annapurna I, by the Nepalese government.

Important Note and Optional Activities
Your safety is of paramount concern whilst traveling with Himalayan Trail Blazer . Please note that your leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, as this is adventure travel in remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it! Weather conditions, health condition of a member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m) – Welcome to Nepal

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Our representative will greet and transfer you to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome briefing from your expedition guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour (1,300m) – Cultural Exploration

Spend the day exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu Valley. Visit Pashupatinath Temple, Nepal’s holiest Hindu shrine, and the Boudhanath Stupa, the largest Buddhist stupa in the country. After lunch, explore Patan Durbar Square, known for its medieval architecture, temples, and intricate wood carvings. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Expedition Briefing at the Ministry of Tourism (1,300m)

Attend the official expedition briefing at the Ministry of Tourism. Meet your climbing team and finalize logistics, permits, and preparations for the climb. Rest of the day is free for gear checks and last-minute shopping. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 4: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (1,170m). Overnight Stay in Pokhara

The drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes you along one of Nepal’s most scenic highways, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers. As you leave the busy capital behind, the landscape shifts into terraced fields, forested hills, and peaceful villages. The journey offers plenty of chances to admire Himalayan views when the weather is clear. Pokhara welcomes you with its relaxed lakeside atmosphere and the stunning backdrop of Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna range. After arrival, you can stretch your legs with a gentle walk around Phewa Lake. The evening is ideal for preparing gear, reviewing the next day’s plan, and settling into the slower pace of this adventure city. You’ll spend the night in Pokhara, resting for the journey ahead.

Day 5: Drive from Pokhara to Lete – Riverside Camp (2,280m)

Drive through pine and rhododendron forests toward Lete Village and further to Riverside Camp. The trail offers majestic views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna peaks. Overnight camping by the river.

Day 6: Trek from Riverside to Jungle Camp (2,800m)

Ascend gradually through dense forests rich in wildlife and alpine vegetation. The peaceful surroundings make for a perfect wilderness camping experience. Overnight at Jungle Camp.

Day 7: Trek from Jungle Camp to Miristi Khola (3,150m)

Follow narrow mountain paths with occasional glacier views until reaching Miristi Khola, a glacial river camp. The area marks the beginning of the higher Himalayan terrain. Overnight camping.

Day 8: Trek from Miristi Khola to Annapurna North Base Camp (4,190m)

Climb steadily toward Annapurna North Base Camp, the launching point for your summit push. The view of Annapurna’s massive ice walls and surrounding peaks is awe-inspiring. Overnight at Base Camp.

Day 9–38: Climbing Period – Summit Mt. Annapurna I (8,091m)

Spend several weeks acclimatizing and establishing higher camps (Camp I, II, III, and IV) on the north face. The summit climb requires technical precision, teamwork, and patience. Upon reaching the top (8,091m), experience one of the most rewarding moments of your life — standing on the 10th highest mountain in the world. Overnight at Base Camp after descent.

Day 39: Return from Annapurna Base Camp to Miristi Khola (3,150m)

Retrace your steps down from the base camp to Miristi Khola. The descent provides new perspectives of the surrounding peaks. Overnight camping.

Day 40: Trek from Miristi Khola to Jungle Camp (2,800m)

Descend through alpine forests and meadows, gradually returning to lower altitudes. Overnight at Jungle Camp.

Day 41: Trek from Jungle Camp to Lete (2,280m)

Continue your return journey toward Lete Village, enjoying the last close-up views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Overnight in a lodge.

Day 42: Trek from Lete (2,480 m) to Pokhara (820 m) | 6–7 Hours Drive

Leaving Lete behind feels rewarding as you descend from the mountain air back toward the lush middle hills. The drive follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, offering wide views of terraced fields, waterfalls and small stone villages. You’ll notice how quickly the landscape changes as the altitude drops, with warmer air and denser greenery replacing the rugged alpine terrain. Along the way, there are several chances to stop for tea, photos and short breaks to stretch your legs. As you approach Pokhara, the familiar sight of peace pagodas, lakes and rolling hills brings a sense of comfort. Reaching Pokhara marks the beginning of your return to modern conveniences after weeks in the high mountains. The evening is yours to unwind with good food, a hot shower and the calm lakeside atmosphere.

Day 43: Leisure Day in Pokhara (827m)

Take a full day to relax or explore Pokhara’s lakeside attractions, including Phewa Lake, Devi’s Fall, and World Peace Pagoda. Overnight in Pokhara.

Day 44: Fly or Drive to Kathmandu (1,300m)

Return to Kathmandu by flight or scenic drive. Spend the evening shopping for souvenirs or enjoying Nepali cuisine at a local restaurant. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Day 45: Rest and Contingency Day in Kathmandu (1,300m)

Use this day as a backup in case of weather delays or simply relax and explore more of Kathmandu’s cultural sites. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 46: Final Departure – Farewell Nepal

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Depart with unforgettable memories of your Mt. Annapurna I Expedition and the spirit of adventure in the Himalayas.

Cost includes:

– 5 Nights accommodation in Kathmandu with bed & Breakfast (3 star Hotel)
– Permit fee of Annapurna 1 (8091m) Expedition
– Food for Trekking and Expedition period
– Staff: Base camp Guide, Cook, Cook helper
– Drive Kathmandu – Pokhara & Beni
– Porters from Galeshor to Annapurna North Base camp
– Equipment allowance, daily allowance for Liaison officer, expedition crew
– Insurance for Nepalese expedition crew.
– 1 tent for 1 person for Expedition
– Mat, dining tent, Toilet tent, Mess tent, Store tent, Table and chairs trekking for the expedition
– Local transportation in Kathmandu (Airport-hotel-airport)
– Emergency Oxygen -Mask and regulator
– Satellite phone (Pay calls)
– Well dinner

Cost does not include:

– PERSONAL equipment for climbing & trekking
– Personal & medical Insurance of expedition
– Climbing food, Gas & stove above Base camp
– Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
– Emergency Rescue evacuation by helicopter incase needed
– Walkie Talkie permit & Satellite phone permit
– Oxygen & Mask -regulator for climbing
– Personal expenses
– Bar Bills & beverage

How the Expedition will operate?

After meeting all your team and crew in Kathmandu we fly by helicopter or fixed wing plane directly to Lukla and follow the Khumbu Valley to Namche Bazar. Acclimatizing along the way and relishing in the hospitality provided by our Sherpa friends we reach base camp and after some rest and preparation we begin the ascent. Base camp will be a collection of sleeping tents, as well as a large kitchen and dining tent. We utilize the services of specially trained Sherpa cooks and we import a lot of high quality food to supplement the local produce available. The guides and Sherpas will fix rope on the route and stock the camps with provisions and equipment. By utilizing fixed rope we can climb in average weather, and, if necessary descend to base camp with little problem in case of a major storm. Two or three climbing Sherpas will assist with the load carrying but no more will be engaged in order to avoid clogging the route and spoiling the nature of the climb. When the fixed line is in place, and the two camps are established and stocked, we will climb back up the ropes and make a bid for the summit. Sufficient supplies will be available to support all members. Guides and Sherpas will carry all group gear but members are expected to carry their own personal gear. Radios will be used to co-ordinate the movements on the mountain and provide a safety back-up for the lead team. It is reasonable to expect that a strong team can climb this route in around two weeks.

I want to climb Ama Dablam, but there are so many options and the cost seems high! Why should I choose Himalayan Trail Blazer? What makes you different to other companies out there?

As we all know that when you make a decision to climb the mountain it is one of the most financially challenging trips to come on. Our prices compared to other outfitters that provide the same product, services, if not a lesser product are actually less! We invite you to shop around and compare, both in price and quality. We feel strongly that you will find us to be the best in the business.

One of the main things that set us apart is our attention to detail. Nowhere else you will find a team of people more dedicated to your success! From the time you contact the office to the time you step on the mountain, our customer service is the best. Another most important reason to choose is our community service.

Our trip prices are much more reasonable compare to many global based companies; it is not because we are economical in service in which we operate. We are local operator therefore we DO NOT re-sell or use second party or agency. Many international companies will take anything from one third to three quarters of the profits this is how your trip price makes huge unusual.

As the trip is so long, can I bring food and other gear not on the list?

Of course! Most people on the Everest expedition, members end up bringing “the kitchen sink”! We encourage you to bring some of your favorite goodies and tech toys, as base camp will become our home for 2 months or so. The more comfortable you are, the more energy you have for the climb, so every little thing helps!

Is there a private trip option too? If yes, how does that work and what are the costs?

Taking as your Everest expedition is a once in a lifetime experience, we wanted to make sure you have every possible advantage. Some clients enjoy the added privacy and schedule flexibility that a private expedition allows. A private means you will have your own guides, your share of the Sherpa carry staff, a private dining tent, and optional private communication facilities. This allows you to climb at your own pace, and enjoy the mountain on your own terms. The costs vary depending on how many clients there are in your private group. Please contact the office for details.

Are the skills/prior experiences required for this climb?

Simply, You cannot just decide to write a cheque and go and climb Mt. Everest! A comprehensive climbing resume is required to join our team. The most required factor on our ‘Himalayan Trail Blazer Everest Expedition’ is that the participants must have a solid understanding of mountaineering skills. This should include previous high altitude experience of at least 6,000 meters, mixed with a multitude of Alpine mountaineering and, preferably, you will have taken part in a previous 8,000-metre expedition. Please let us know if you want us to arrange training program in some of the 6000 and 7000 meters peaks in Himalaya before your Everest expedition begin. Our Three Peaks Climbing Courses or Pumori Expedition is appropriate for preparing Everest expedition. By our experience we have found that those who have been to 7000 to 8,000-meters peak previously have a considerably better chance of getting to the top of Everest. We would strongly advise you to climb one of the other 7000 or 8,000 meter peaks before going to Everest, as this is the best way of ensuring the money you spend on Everest will be rewarded by a successful ascent and a safe return home. Exceptionally, however, climbers who have not had the chance of climbing 7000 to 8,000 meters peak may consider Everest if they have a compensating depth of experience.

What is the conditioning level needed for this climb?

You should be in the best shape of your life! This is our longest expedition of the year. It requires patience, stamina, mental fortitude, and a strong will. Summit day can sometimes be over 20 hours long! Day by day the challenges are different, but the more prepared you are, both mentally and physically, the smoother your trip will go.

In a team, how many climbers will be on this expedition?

Maximum 10 members can be included on our Himalayan Trail Blazer Everest expedition. This is to ensure that we can maintain safety and our attention on detail. There may be more in base camp and in the camps on the mountain if there are private expeditions, but they will generally travel separately from the main team.

Can I contact other climbers or guides for this expedition?

Yes, we encourage that. Perhaps there may be someone in your area that can become a training partner, perhaps they can help you source some hard to find gear. The bottom line is that it’s a good idea to have some contact with folks that you will share this experience with.

Will I be sharing a tent or room with other climbers? Is there a single room option on this trip?

You will have your own tent in base camp, but on the mountain, you will be sharing a tent with others. We generally book you in to a single room in the hotel in Kathmandu whilst it is twin share in the lodges on the trek into base camp. A single supplement is available. Please contact us for further details.

Is the food in mountain prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

YES, the food is very safe during the trekking and we recommend you to eat the vegetarian and local food.

Is water provided and is there still water available at higher altitudes? Is it filtered/boiled? Readily available?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and tea houses. You can buy bottled water at the cost of USD 2 at lower elevations to USD 4 to higher elevation per littler. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

What mode of transportation do you use?

Himalayan Trail Blazer is all about providing you with local insights, lifestyle as well as adventure. Depending on the nature of the travel, the transportation to and from the destination varies from domestic flights to vehicular transportation to even piggyback rides on mules and yaks. We provide you only those options which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans or alternatively 4WD SUVs, more maneuverable in travelling along the narrow and bumpy roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.

For domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu), we use Tara Air, Agni Air -popular domestic airlines.

What is the best season for this trekking?

Every trekking trip up the mighty Mt. Everest presents its own amazing, unforgettable moments that forever live on in the hearts and minds of those brave enough to make the climb. One of the most unpredictable elements of the Everest region is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation. Here are some weather basics to help ensure that you come to the Himalayas as well equipped and prepared to face anything.

Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C, only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

Spring – March / April / May / June
Spring happens to be one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible in the lower altitude.

During springtime, the average temperature is 17 degrees C with a maximum of 25 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

July / August Through Mid-September is Monsoon Season
This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positives to trekking during the monsoon months, however. The excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. The maximum temperature during the monsoon season averages 25 degrees C during sunny days with a minimum -15 degrees C in the morning and night at areas above 4000 meters. The average temperature tends to hover around a comfortable 18 degrees C.

Autumn – End of September / October / November
Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle.

The average temperature during the fall is 15 degrees C with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -10 degrees C in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

Regardless of time of year, trekkers should always plan accordingly and bring clothing for both cooler and warmer temps. Layering is always recommended, as are pants that can double as shorts. For a full list of clothing and materials to bring to account for various temperatures and weather changes that can occur in the Everest region, visitors should work closely with their travel provider. This will ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable no matter what the weather and that every possible scenario will be accounted for ahead of time.
I m a Vegeterain, is that a Problem ?

No problem at all because the lodges mostly serve the vegetarian meals. We always recommend our clients to eat vegetarian meals to avoid the food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non- vegetarian meals at the high altitude is not really safe for the stomach.

How much should I tip my guide staff?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from 20USD to 15,000 USD for an Everest expedition tip. Tipping is not must, but a small way to show your guides thanks for their help. The level of the tip should reflect the level of personal involvement with your guide. Recommended tipping and Sherpa bonuses are as follow:

Allow $80-150 for general non-sherpa crew who stay at base camp.
Allow $150-250 for sherpas who go up to the base camp.
Summit climbing Sherpa US$ 400-600 per Sherpa

Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center? Have they received first aid training for high altitude?

Yes, they have all received a 45-day training from the Hotel Management and Tourism Center in Nepal. The guides have also received high altitude first aid training from KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).

What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

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Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?

Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.

What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory in Himalaya, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus.

We also recommend:

A dental check-up prior to travelling.
That you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and Himalayan Trail Blazer at the time of your booking.

Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

“ Join Upcoming Mt. Annapurna I Expedition (8091m) starting from 19-10-2026 and 30-10-2026”

Trip Facts
Destination:	Annapurna Region, Nepal
Trip Grade:	Moderate to Strenuous
Max Altitude:	8091m (Mt. Annapurna I Expedition (8091m) )
Best Season:	Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Group Size:	2–12
Start/End:	Kathmandu
Accommodation:	Lodge, Camping (Any One)

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What Our Client Says ?

Eric Larsen – Everest Expedition Summit 2010 Autumn

In autumn 2010, I joined the Everest Expedition organized by Himalayan Trail Blazer. Expeditions to Everest during the autumn season are rare, yet the team executed everything with outstanding professionalism, safety, and care. From the meticulous planning to the on-ground support, their expertise was evident at every step. I felt fully supported throughout the journey, and the experience remains one of the most memorable adventures of my life. I would highly recommend Himalayan Trail Blazer to anyone seeking a genuine and well-organized Himalayan expedition.”

Ryan Waters – Dhaulagiri Expedition 2010

Partnering with Himalayan Trail Blazer for the Dhaulagiri Expedition was an outstanding experience. Their logistical support, attention to detail, and deep knowledge of the Himalayan region made all the difference in ensuring the team’s safety and success. From the planning stages in Kathmandu to the final summit push, everything was handled with professionalism and genuine care. I’ve led expeditions across the world, and I can confidently say that Himalayan Trail Blazer sets a new standard in high-altitude guiding and support in Nepal.