Trip Highlights:
Pokhara to Muktinath Trek follows the Annapurna Sanctuary and part of Annapurna Circuit Trek route via Ghandruk-Ghorepani and along the Kaligandaki River gorge, the deepest river gorge in the world, between the Annapurna massif and the Dhaulagiri mountain range. The beautiful river gorge is a very wide and open space with fantastic scenery. We will trek along the Annapurna Round Trek route from Pokhara to Muktinath. This trek offers you one of the best opportunities to see the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range. Also, the trek goes through beautifully terraced farmlands with villages where you have a chance to see the Nepalese way of life. The inhabitants of the region are mostly Magar and Gurung people. However, in the lower foothills and along the Pokhara to Mustang trade route, we will meet diverse ethnic groups including Chhetri, Brahmin, Thakali and others.
We also trek through rhododendron forests interspersed with various other species, some of the best-preserved forests in Nepal. There are over 30 species of rhododendrons found in Nepal. The Rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal and found in several colors, red, white, purple, and pink, when in blossom in the spring. If you love to see the spectacular rhododendron flower covered forest scenery with snowcapped peaks in the background, you should consider trekking in the spring season from March to April. Other species of floras found along the trail are Silver fir, Acacia, Chestnut, Walnut, Birch, Rosewood, Silky Cotton trees, Oak, Hemlock, Alder, Maples and Blue pines, to mention a few. In addition to the spectacular views of the snowcapped mountains towering above the lush green hills and deep valleys, you will likely see Langur monkeys, and various birds as you trek through the forest trail. October to December and February to May are the best times to trek this region for spectacular views.
In recent years, road building along the Kaligandaki River gorge to Muktinath has ruined the centuries old foot paths. As a result, we will be forced to walk along the road at various places on this trek. Except the road and vehicles, the natural scenery is always beautiful and welcomes you.
Comfortable Lodging in Kathmandu and Pokhara Valley:
Quality boutique hotels Nepali Ghar Hotel or Hotel Thamel House close to the hustle and bustle of Thamel will be your comfort when traveling with Sherpa Travel.
In Pokhara, Fishtail Lodge or Temple Tree Resort and Spa.
If these hotels are full, similar lodging will be provided. We strongly suggest to book your trip far in advance to get the best desired lodging and airfares.
Comfortable and Economical Lodging while on trek:
We will provide mix of both comfortable and economical lodging while on trek as we are traveling in remote areas where standard of accommodation varies from one place to another. We will book and confirm the best available comfortable and economical lodging along the trekking route. During peak tourism season, some locations will be very full. We strongly suggest to book your trip far in advance to get the best desired lodging and airfares.
Lodge to Lodge Trekking Program:
This trip involves overnights in lodges and trekking on the main trail from one lodge to another. Breakfast and dinners are served at the lodges where you spend the night. Lunches are served at local inns and restaurants while on the route.
Trip leadership by local English-speaking licensed Nepali guide throughout the trip and support staff guides (1 porter per 2 clients) are employed to carry your luggage on the trek.
