The Annapurna Base Camp II trek is unique in its offering of insights into the physical and cultural diversity of Nepal. It begins in Kathmandu, which you can tour with a local Himalayan Sewa Expedition and Trek guide or explore on your own. From there you travel to Besishahar and trek along the Marsyangdi River through the rice paddies, terraced fields, and Hindu villages that lie in the shadows of the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges.

As you ascend to Ngadi, the valley becomes narrower, waterfalls cascade from high above, and the scenery gains a rugged alpine appearance. The trail then bears west behind the Annapurnas and takes you to a Trans-Himalayan region populated by people of Tibetan origin, whose prayer flags, mani walls, and monasteries are demonstrative of the thriving Buddhist culture here. The views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Gangapurna are dramatic as you make the gradual ascent to the village of Manang.

You spend a day resting and acclimatizing to the environment in Manang, and then undertake the challenging crossing of the Thorong La summit pass, which links the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki Valleys. The majestic mountain views at the top of the pass are a sight to behold before you descend to the holy temples at Muktinath. As you continue your descent, you enter the valley at Jomsom at the foot of world’s deepest gorge, cutting between the peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. From Jomsom you fly to Pokhara, where you enjoy two nights close to the beautiful Phewa Tal Lake.