9 days Annapurna Skyline Trekking (Royal trek) is considered one of the most picturesque and classical trekking in the foothill of the Annapurna region in Nepal. Along with the marvelous view of Annapurna massif, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and many other towering peaks of the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Royal trekking offers an authentic village experience in significantly less time.
It begins with an awesome drive following Prithvi Highway leaving Kathmandu towards Pokhara. Therefore, a short drive to Bijaypur and starting trek bypassing numerous settlements, temples, terraced fields with seasonal crops, and waterfalls with spectacular views of high stunning mountains takes you to meet Rupa Lake and Begnas Lake. Experiencing the Annapurna region's mixed culture and unique lifestyle is an additional reward of this Annapurna skyline trek.
Day 4: Drive to Bijaypur and trek to Kalikasthan (1,370 m)
Day 5: Trek from Kalikasthan to Shaklung (1,730 m)
Day 6: Trek from Shaklung to Chisopani (2,629 m)
Day 7: Trek to Begnas Lake and drive to Pokhara
Day 8: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 9: Departure
Cost Includes:
Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
3-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast
Teahouse accommodation during the trek
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek
Farewell dinner in Kathmandu
All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
Entrance fees for sightseeing/monument visits as per the itinerary
An experienced, English-speaking, and government-licensed trek leader and assistant trek leader
Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation
Down jacket and sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion)
All necessary paperwork and trekking permits
Medical kit (carried by your trek leader)
All government and local taxes
Cost Excludes:
Nepalese visa fee
Excess baggage charge(s)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain due to any reason other than the scheduled itinerary
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (except farewell dinner)
International flights
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower, etc.)
Tips for guide(s), porter(s) and driver(s)
* This tour can be fully customized as per your requirement.
Day 1: Arrival day in Kathmandu (1,300 m)
After you arrive in Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport), our representative welcomes you and transfers you to a fine tourist hotel by our private vehicle. We schedule a short meeting at our office for introducing you to our trekking members and discussing our upcoming trek.
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and preparation
After enjoying a hot breakfast, we start our sightseeing tour throughout Pashupatinath temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swyambhunath Stupa (monkey temple) which are listed on a list of UNESCO world heritage sites, and after visiting these wonderful sights, we return to finalizing our clothing and trekking gears for next day. The second night will also be spent at the same hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820 m)
The early morning guide picks up a comfortable private vehicle and shifts towards the bus station to catch a luxury tourist standard bus. Heading towards the west of Kathmandu valley and following Prithvi Highway by catching the side of Trishuli River takes to Pokhara. Finally, after reaching beautiful Pokhara Valley, we inspect beautiful Fewa Lake in the evening hour and spend the night at a tourist standard hotel in Pokhara.
Day 4: Drive to Bijaypur and trek to Kalikasthan (1,370 m)
Leaving gorgeous Pokhara behind, we drive following Prithvi Highway till Bijaypur and after steeping Bijaypur, we start arranging our bags and packs quickly to develop our trek forward. Therefore, beginning a walk through the boarded trail crossing flat paddy fields up to the river, and passing different Brahmin villages leads to Kalikasthan and the remaining hours will be spent exploring throughout along night will be spent at baa sic tea house (homestay).
Day 5: Trek from Kalikasthan to Shaklung (1,730 m)
Today’s walk is a really beautiful, early morning-developed trek taken towards Thulakhet to Mathi Thana by crossing the attractive Rhododendron forest. After that, a short climb from this point offers Naundanda along a continuous walk reach to Lipeyani village with magnificent views of towering mountains and a short steep ascend from this village will finally take you to Shaklung (Gurung village). Homestay at Shaking.
Day 6: Trek from Shaklung to Chisopani (2,629 m)
From Shaklung's steep descent through the south side of the hill, passing numerous Gurung settlements and dense forests takes us to the valley floor known as Chautara, which is also a trail junction and a police checkpoint. The trail on the left leads towards Begnas Lake and on the east will take us to Marsyangdi River. Therefore, upward ascending through the winding path takes us to Chisopani village. After reaching Chisopani, we hike up to Chisopani Danda to visit a temple in the evening hours.
Day 7: Trek to Begnas Lake and drive to Pokhara
Triggering our trek forward following steep descent and steeping the stone steps will bring us to a small valley, where we cross the bridge across the stream to reach the Rupa Lake along further walk passing through terraced fields with seasonal crops finally ascend the rigid separating Begnas and Rupa Lake. After steeping at Begnas Lake, we explore Lake Area for some hours and a short drive from Begnas takes us back to Pokhara to stay overnight.
Day 8: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
After attending an early morning delicious breakfast, we leave Pokhara and step forward to catch a tourist standard bus towards Kathmandu. Finally, after reaching Kathmandu, our private vehicle will be there to pick you up and transfer you to a fine tourist standard hotel. Evening hours will be utilized for discussing experiences and moments of the trek the night will be spent at the fine lodge in Kathmandu. Tonight, we host Nepali food in a Nepalese restaurant with unique dance and musical shows.
Day 9: Departure
On the last day managing your time, you can go out shopping to collect souvenirs for your friends, family members, or your loved ones. We will be there to help you with your necessary arrangements and packing along our comfortable private vehicle will be there to transfer you towards the airport focusing your flight time. Our members and well-wishers will be there to wish you a safe journey and successful steps for the upcoming days.
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What are the required permits for the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP): Mandatory for entering the Annapurna Conservation Area, which encompasses the entire trekking route.
TIMS Card (Trekkers Information Management System): Essential for every trekker in Nepal to track movement and ensure safety.
When is the best time for the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most favorable conditions for the Annapurna Skyline trek, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
What are the highlights of the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
Serene Landscapes: Experience the tranquility of lush valleys, terraced farmlands, and the shimmering Begnas Lake, nestled amidst the Annapurna foothills.
Panoramic Views: Witness breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna South, Annapurna III, and Machhapuchhre, from vantage points like Kalikasthan and Poon Hill.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming Gurung culture, learning about their traditional lifestyle, visiting their villages, and interacting with the locals.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Venture into the less-crowded trails of the Annapurna region, enjoying the serenity of remote villages and unspoiled wilderness.
How to prepare for the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
Physical Fitness: Train consistently, focusing on cardiovascular endurance and strength training to handle moderate ascents, moderate altitudes (up to 3,290 meters/10,794 feet at Poon Hill), and varied terrain.
Altitude Acclimatization: Gradually adjust to high altitudes before starting the trek, spending a few days in Kathmandu (1,400 meters) before ascending.
Permits and Insurance: Obtain the necessary permits (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit, TIMS Card) and purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
Gear and Clothing: Pack appropriate attire for moderate-altitude trekking, including warm clothing, waterproof layers, hiking boots, a backpack, trekking poles, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit.
How difficult is the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
The Annapurna Skyline Trek is considered a moderately challenging trek, requiring a moderate level of fitness and experience. It involves moderate ascents, moderate altitudes, varied terrain, and some exposure to altitude sickness.
How fit do you need to be for the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
To tackle this trek, you should be in good physical condition. Regular aerobic exercise, such as running, swimming, or cycling, will develop the stamina required for moderate-length treks. Additionally, strength training will prepare your muscles for the demands of the trek.
What should you pack for the Annapurna Skyline Trek?
Here's a basic packing list for the Annapurna Skyline Trek: