In this post: Introduction

Experiences

Insights

Introduction

Previously having undertaken several expeditions and treks in the Himalayas, this time we headed west to explore the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region, and away from the maddening crowds.

Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Annapurna 4 and Annapurna 2

Most days, it was rewarding to have stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. Along with Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) plus close up views of Dhaulagiri, the 7th highest mountain in the world at 8167m/26,794ft.

The spectacular Machhapuchhre (Fishtail)

Mt Dhaulagiri, 7th highest mountain in the world

We were accompanied by a group of wonderful guides, porters and fellow trekkers.

Introducing some of our wonderful crew – the porters and our trek leader

With another French party staying up at Kopra Ridge, I celebrated my birthday with a cake, made from scratch at 3,600m. Having ‘happy birthday’ sung to me in French capped off a marvellous evening.

Birthday cake at 3600m!

Experiences

One of the experiences of trekking in the Himalayas, aside from some of the best mountain views in the world, is that you never know what to expect. From snow and ice one day, sunshine the next, rhododendrons (by the thousands) plus a very cute dog which accompanied us for six days straight.

A blaze of colour in the rhododendron forests in the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region.

The very cute dog who followed us for days on end

Another great highlight of this trek was forging our own way around villages and up and across ridges using old yak herder trails. This way, we avoided the main Annapurna Circuit Trail. An ever changing trail, from which we observed was very busy, especially those sections which are now dirt roads carrying vehicle traffic. I guess that’s what happens with infrastructure and so called progress arrives in these places – along with hydro power to provide electricity. But I don’t hear the locals complaining, and I guess why should they.

On the trail

Donkeys on the trail

Capping off our adventure, was being able to soak up sunrise at a private camp with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Views that rival those from Poon Hill, without the crowds and a 4.30am start.

Views of Annapurna South from one of our campsites

As one of our guides reminded me – the mountains are there, but they will always be there in your heart too. So true.

Au revoir.

Onwards and upwards!

Trevor

Dhaulagiri Panorama – atop of Kopra Ridge

Insights

Nepali Flats – don’t be fooled by this expression! Be prepared to often ascend 400m, then descend 1,000m. Very often!

Down to the river crossing then all the way back up!

Most treks to the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region start with a morning flight to Pokhara which is around an hours flight from Kathmandu.

Flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Compared to the Everest region, the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region is greener, humid and not as dry or cold. This is especially at lower altitude.

If you are planning to visit Nepal, plan to go during the main climbing seasons of April/May. You never know what famous mountain climbers you’ll bump into wandering around Thamel.

Read how to get to Kathmandu

Panorama from Kopra Ridge in the Annapurna Dhaulagiri region.