kali gandaki gorge trek

Pristine Nepal Treks

Explore, Trek, and Experience Nepal's Best

The Deepest Gorge Trek

Embark on an extraordinary journey with Pristine Nepal Treks & Expedition as we present you with the “ World’s Deepest Gorge Trek ” in the mesmerizing Annapurna Himalaya region of Nepal.

The Kali Gandaki Gorge or Andha Galchhi is the deepest gorge trek area in the world that is 5,571m less than Mt. Annapurna I. This area is called Thak Khola where Thakali people are living for a long time. Thakali people were very popular in the Trans Himalaya trade.

This remarkable trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand amidst two majestic 8,000-meter peaks, Mt. Annapurna I, and Mt. Dhaulagiri. Prepare to be captivated by breathtaking views of towering mountains, including Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167m) , Annapurna I (8,091m) , Mt. Nilgiri (7,040m) , and many more.

Additionally, the trek offers a chance to unwind and relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani , making it an ideal destination for quality family time in the lap of nature.

Deepest Gorge Trek Highlights:

• The Deepest Gorge Trek gives you a lifetime opportunity to stand between two 8,000m above mountains i.e. Mt. Annapurna I & Mt. Dhaulagiri.
• One of the best views of Mt. Dhaulagiri-8,167m, Annapurna I-8,091m, Mt.Nilgiri-7,040m, Annapurna South-7,219m, Annapurna II-7,937m, Annapurna III-7,555m, Annapurna IV-7,525m, Hiunchuli-6,441m, Fishtail/ Machhapuchhare-6,998m, Tukuche peak-6,920m, Lamjung Himal-6,586m.
• Take a bath in the natural Hot-spring at Tatopani and relax.
• The best place to have quality time with your family in nature.

Where is the World’s Deepest Gorge Trek located?

The World’s Deepest Gorge Trek takes place within the magnificent Kali Gandaki River Valley, nestled in the Annapurna Himalaya region of Nepal. With a staggering depth of 18,278 ft (5,571m) , the Kali Gandaki Gorge holds the distinction of being the world’s deepest gorge.

It is situated between the awe-inspiring peaks of Mt. Annapurna I and Mt. Dhaulagiri, both towering above 8,000 meters.

If you want to trek here then you can do it from two completely different areas. One from Besisahar with “ Annapurna Circuit” and another from Pokhara via “Poon Hill Ghorepani”.

How to reach Kali Gandaki Deepest Gorge Trek?

To reach the Kali Gandaki Deepest Gorge Trek, you can start your journey from either Besisahar or Pokhara . If you opt for the Besisahar route, you’ll have the opportunity to traverse the highest and widest pass in the world, known as Thorang La Pass, standing at an altitude of over 5,416m.

You can cross this Thorang La Pass while doing Annapurna Circuit also which can be the best way to enjoy the trek.

Alternatively, for those with limited time, you can begin the trek from Pokhara or even Kathmandu. A scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom is also available for a captivating start to your adventure

This trek gives you the picturesque Muktinath valley-3,700m on the part of the upper Mustang. Whereas, Jomsom, Muktinath, and Kagbeni are Tibetian-influenced societies. That is why you will feel like you’re in Tibet territory.

Simply, follow the Kali Gandaki all the time until you reach Tatopani where you will relish the natural hot spring and climb up to Poon Hill for the beautiful sun-rising viewpoint one day before Pokhara.

Or you can start from Nayapul after a short drive from Pokhara where you will need to climb 3,500 steps before Poon Hill, Ghorepani. Most trekkers visit Poon Hill for the sun rising with almighty Annapurna views.

Finally, trek all the way down to Kali Gandaki gorge trek trail via Tatopani (Hot Spring) way to Muktinath & back to Jomsom for a flight back to Pokhara.

Who can do the Deepest Gorge Trek?

The Deepest Gorge Trek, although challenging, is suitable for adventurers of all ages and physical abilities. Unlike many other treks, this remarkable journey imposes no age restrictions or demanding physical requirements.

As a result, it becomes a perfect choice for families and individuals seeking an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s wonders. Regardless of your fitness level, everyone can partake in the exhilarating Deepest Gorge Trek with ease.

Conclusion:

Embarking on the World’s Deepest Gorge Trek in Nepal is an adventure of a lifetime that offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking grandeur of Mt. Annapurna I and Mt. Dhaulagiri, which stand between two colossal peaks, and explore the world’s deepest gorge.

Whether you start your trek from Besisahar or Pokhara, this extraordinary journey promises stunning landscapes, rejuvenating hot springs, and a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of the region.

Cost Details

Packing list, price inclusion.

• Airport picks & drops by private vehicle
• Two night’s hotel in Kathmandu on the basis of twin sharing
• Two night’s hotel in Pokhara on the basis of twin sharing
• Tourist bus tickets Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu
• Flight tickets to Jomsom from Pokhara
• Guide’s flight ticket to Jomsom from Pokhara
• Porter’s bus ticket to Jomsom from Pokhara
• Local bus ticket from Marpha to Tatopani
• Private vehicle to Pokhara from Nayapul after trekking
• ACAP Permit (Annapurna Conservation Area Project)
• TIMS Cards Permit
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner during the trek
• Fresh fruits in dinner
• Steri Pen for water purification
• Trekking guide (salary, food, accommodation, insurance)
• Trekking Porter (Salary, food, accommodation, insurance)
• Free coordination in emergency cases
• All paper works
• Farewell dinner at a reputable restaurant

Price does not include

• Nepal visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Tips to guide & porter
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, WIFi, hot shower
• All soft & hard drinks

Upon your arrival at the International airport, our team will be ready to pick you up. Look for our team carrying a signboard with your name. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Thamel, where you will receive a short briefing about your trek.

After an early breakfast at your hotel, our guide and porters will meet you half an hour before departure for Pokhara. The tourist bus leaves at 7:00 am from Kathmandu. Enjoy a scenic drive through beautiful mountain areas, passing small settlements, farmland, and the picturesque Trisuli River. Arrive in Pokhara, the enchanting city known for its natural beauty. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Take a morning flight to Jomsom, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Enjoy breakfast in Jomsom with a stunning view of Mt. Nilgiri. Start your trek with a gentle walk to Kagbeni, following the trail through the beautiful Kali Gandaki Valley. Kagbeni is a Buddhist village influenced by Tibetan culture and serves as the gateway to the Upper Mustang region.

Embark on a vertical steep climb for an hour, followed by a gradual path to Jharkot, offering spectacular views of Mt. Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche Peak, and more. Continue climbing until you reach the holy Muktinath, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site at an altitude of over 3,700m. Explore the sacred area and witness the one-hundred-eight water taps believed to have purifying properties.

Descend from Muktinath to Eklebhatti and follow the Kali Gandaki River Valley. Enjoy the beautiful valley views, apple orchards, and the strong winds that blow through the Kali Gandaki Valley. Arrive in Marpha, a charming village known for its Thakali food and apple-related products.

Take a local bus or jeep from Marpha back to Tatopani. The trekking trails in this area have been affected by the road construction, making it preferable to avoid walking on the dusty road. Tatopani is renowned for its natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate your body.

Embark on a short walk along the road from Tatopani, crossing a bridge and ascending to Sikha village. Enjoy uphill sections and pass through small villages with captivating views. Reach Ghorepani, a popular tourist destination situated at an elevation of over 2,800m. Prepare for an early morning hike to Poon Hill.

In the early morning, hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) to witness the sunrise over the stunning Mt. Dhaulagiri and Mt. Annapurna ranges. After breakfast, trek downhill to Nayapul. From there, a local bus or jeep will take you back to Pokhara. Enjoy an overnight stay in Pokhara.

After your Kali Gandaki Gorge trek, take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu through the beautiful countryside. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours due to narrow roads and traffic. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a reputable restaurant in Kathmandu from us, where you can relish the flavors of Nepal and reflect on your trekking adventure.

On the final day, we will arrange your transfer to the international airport in Kathmandu, ensuring you depart with cherished memories of Nepal and the exceptional services provided by Pristine Nepal Treks & Expedition. We hope your Kali Gandaki Gorge trek was a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. We look forward to receiving highly recommended feedback from you, as we are confident that our services have left a lasting impression.

Planning and Preparation are very important to have a safe and sustainable experience while trekking. Focusing only on fitness is not what you should be doing to prepare for the trek, instead, there are so many key factors that you should consider before leaving for the trek.

Things like gear & equipment, mental preparation, budgeting, planning itinerary, acclimatization, safety & other important factors are necessary to avoid trekking errors. Here are some important factors to plan & prepare for a safe & sustainable trek in Nepal:

Gears & Equipment: Packing list for EBC

Packing the right gear & equipment can save you from any unnecessary expenses. To make it easy for you, here is the checklist of the packing list for the  Kali Gandaki Gorge Trek:

Clothing gear for the trek

Down jackets Trekking boots Long sleeve t-shirts Gortex-waterproof windproof jackets Hiking socks Beanie UV rays protected sunglasses Nylon windproof pants Nylon windproof pants Water bottles Gloves Neck gaiter

Essential gears for the trek

Duffle bag (It is provided by us without extra charges if you trek with us) Minimum 40L daypack for carrying essential items during the trek Water bottles or Camelbak (Hydration bladder) Sleeping bags Trekking poles Quick dry trekking towels

Toiletries Items

Toilet paper Soap Shampoo Diaper Rash cream Toothbrush & Toothpaste Lip balm Wet wipes Hand sanitizer Hairbrush

Foods and Snacks

Snacks (which include chocolate bars and Protein & carb-containing foods) Thermos (For storing hot water for a longer time) Re-hydration powder (To stay hydrated)

Important Documents

Passport (It is needed for entry gate registration) Visa Travel Insurance

Additional Supplies

Portable solar charger/power bank Playing cards or any other games DSLR cameras Book

What can you rent in Thamel, Kathmandu for your trek?

In Thamel, Kathmandu, we can recommend several rental shops where you can rent a Down Jacket, sleeping bag, and Trekking Pole, and buy the remaining gear too. We also offer quality sleeping bag rental service.

I am Vegan, what extra things should I pack for the trek?

If you are a vegan, it is strongly recommended to bring additional protein bars or snacks for the trek. The cost of snacks in the trekking trail will be expensive, so prepare accordingly.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Featured trips.

Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Cho La Pass Trek

Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek

Rate us on trip advisor, related trips you might interested in.

Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Ride Return

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Annapurna Kali Gandaki Trek 17 Days

trip Overview

Annapurna Kali Gandaki Trek is a popular trail in Annapurna trekking area where you will enjoy the spectacular Himalayan views. It is consider as one of the geographically and culturally rich valleys of Nepal.  The trail follows the Kali Gandaki River from the Hindu lowlands in the south to the Buddhist villages. Anapurna Kali Gandaki Trek is an ideal choice to enjoy the sub-alpine and Trans Himalaya climate zone at a single time. Trekkers will enjoy the majestic Himalays of Nepal such as Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri.

Annapurna Kali Gandaki Trek with Nepal Dream Path Treks starts after a short drive from Pokhara to Nayapool. The trek starts on foot from here. Heading through the tropical climate zone with dense forest and terraced crop fields we reached Tikhedhunga. Continues walking through rhododendron forest to climb Poonhill at dawn for the sunrise view as well as the fabulous view of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The journey follows the Kali-Gandaki River all the way to its near-source at Muktinath; the highest spot of this trip. This wonderful adventure leads us through the remote farm villages and terraced fields from the sub-tropics, climate to the Arctic zone.  This grand trek also offers the world’s deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki River valley. We have to pass the charming villages of Jomsom, Marpha-Tukuche, and Tatopani(hot spring).

Short Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu transfer to Hotel. Day 02: Sightseeing tour of the World heritage site Kathmandu. Day 03: Drive or Fly to Pokhara [950m] [5-6 hours drive or 25 min flight]. Day 04: Drive to Nayapul [1100m] and trek to Tikhedhunga [1450m]. Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani [2,860m] [5-6 hrs walk]. Day 06: Morning hike to Poon Hill [3,210m] and trek to Sikha [2,260m] [4-5 hrs walk]. Day 07: Trek to Tatopani/Hot Spring [1,140m] [4 hr walk]. Day 08: Trek to Ghasa [2,240m] [6 hrs walk]. Day 09: Trek to Marpha [2,600m] via Tukuche [2,530m] [6 hrs walk]. Day 10: Trek to Jomsom [2,700m] [2 hrs walk]. Day 11: Trek to Kagbeni [2,800m] [4 hrs walk]. Day 12: Trek to Muktinath [3,760m] [4 hrs walk]. Day 13: Trek back to Jomsom [5 hrs]. Day 14: Fly to Pokhara, full-day sightseeing, evening free for boating at Fewa lake. Day 15: Fly or drive to Kathmandu. Day 16: Free for personal activities in Kathmandu. Day 17: International Departure.

Detail Itinerary

Day 01: arrival in kathmandu transfer to hotel..

30m drive BB Plan Hotel/Resort

Nepal Dream Path Treks staff will meet you on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and help you to transfer to the hotel until the check-in procedure ends at Hotel. We arrange a meeting or discussion program which includes your daily schedule of Annapurna and Kali Gandaki trek and a brief introduction and rules and regulations regarding Nepal Trip.

Day 02: Sightseeing tour over the World heritage site Kathmandu

10am - 4pm BB Plan Hotel/Resort

On the first day or night in Kathmandu, you will be well informed regarding the time for your sightseeing tour in Kathmandu at places of interest. Click here for detailed information about where to visit Kathmandu Valley.

Day 03: Drive or Fly to Pokhara [950m]

6 hrs drive or 25m fly BB Plan Hotel/Resort

Morning travel by bus or a car to Pokhara on the scenic highway, an interesting drive on the foothills of the Himalaya, on reaching at Pokhara transfer to respective Hotels nearby the Lake Phewa for the overnight stay. Evening time, free for personal activities or boating at Fewa Lake.

Day 04: Drive to Nayapul [1100m] and trek to Tikhedhunga [1450m]

2-3hrs drive and 2hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

A two hours morning drive on the highway to Nayapul (new bridge) where Nepal Dream Path Treks adventure begins with about 3-4 hours of trekking, the trail passes the busy areas encountering people of all walks of life merchants, traders, locals, trekkers, and mule, and donkey trains, then reaching at Birethati village from here our path diverts following the main trail on the old Trans-Himalayan trade route. From here trek follows through many farm villages and waterfalls till Tikhedhunga is reached for the overnight stop.

Day 05: Trek to Ghorepani [2,860m]

5-6 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

Morning walk winds up on a steep climb for near 2 hrs on the stone steps to Ulleri village, from Ulleri trail winds up gradually through the cool rainforest for a few hours with few ups and downs, the walk leads nearer to Ghorepani, feeling the altitude and change of vegetation, trekking in the midst of rhododendron woods till Ghorepani village is reached for the overnight stop, offering grand views of Dhaulagiri range of mountains towards the west and Annapurna South in the north.

Day 06: Morning hike to Poon Hill [3,210m] and trek to Sikha [2,260m]

4-5 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

Morning 1 hr hike to Poon Hill 3,210 m for fantastic sunrise over the Himalayan chain of mountains from Dhaulagiri-Annapurna to Mt.Manaslu ranges, after the panoramic views return back to Ghorepani for breakfast, continue trek to Sikha From Ghorepani the track descends through rhododendron and magnolia forest to Chitre and then to Sikha village for the overnight halt.

Day 07: Trek to Tatopani/Hot Spring [1,140m]

A good trek leads to Ghar Khola, after crossing the river, the route leads upstream following the Kali-Gandaki River all the way to Tatopani Village. Tatopani (Hot Spring) is situated on the banks of the Kalai Gandaki River and it is etiquette not to pollute these pools by using soap in them. Here you will have time to immerse in this hot pool.

Day 08: Trek to Ghasa [2,240m]

6 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

From Tatopani, trekking along the gorge of Kali Gandaki River and re-crossing this river at two places by suspension bridges, the trail is gradual most of the way with few ups reaching Rupsi Chara (waterfall). Then climbing up to a ridge and descending towards the same river. At the bottom cross, the bridge over the Kali-Gandaki River another hour of nice walk brings us to the Thakali village at Ghasa for the overnight.

Day 09: Trek to Marpha [2,600m] via Tukuche [2,530m]

5-6hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

After Ghasa, two hours of a nice walk along the western bank of the Kali-Gandaki river and crossing the Lete Khola (stream) river by a wooden bridge and passing through the village of Lete, a short climb from Lete reaches another nice village at Kalapana with a magnificent view of world’s 7th highest Mt. Dhaulagiri at 8,167 m and the tumbling icefall, left and to the right Nilgiri's close to worlds 10th highest Annapurna I at 8,091 m From this spot begins the world deepest gorge from the tip of these giant mountains and to the valley gorge below trekking trail a plunge of near 5,000 meters. From this village, the walk is gradual most of the way, then reaching back again at Kali-Gandaki River Valley, crossing the suspension bridge to Larjung village, from here an hour walk to Tukuche village, the trail meanders past the village with two hours of nice walk from here leads to the most charming village at Marpha for the overnight stop. Herewith is time to marvel at the surrounding view and the village and perhaps try the local apple products, cider juice, or a potent brandy.

Day 10: Trek to Jomsom [2,700m]

2-3 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

The trek from Marpha is well defined; the walk is gentle with a slow easy climb following the river upstream till Jomsom is reached for lunch and for the overnight stop. Jomsom, the largest settlement and administrative headquarter of the whole Mustang district, Jomsom with small airstrip a thriving spot for both tourist and pilgrims.

Day 11: Trek to Kagbeni [2,800m]

4 hrs walk All meals [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee] Tea House

From Jomsom, a walk leads on the Kaligandaki plains with a few ups and down to a small place Ekali Bhatti. From here the path splits into two ways the higher up leads directly to Muktinath well the other heads to upper Mustang and Tibet via Kagbeni, while our route diverts towards Kagbeni which is about an hour walk from this place.

Day 12: Trek to Muktinath [3,760m]

Today the final destination and to the highest spot of this trip at Muktinath 3,750 meters, the route leads along passing the interesting village of Jharkot, this place looks old and withered, as it was been for many hundred years ago untouched by modern civilization, from Jharkot the trail climbs gradually for another hour to the holy place at Muktinath. Muktinath, located in between the popular trek to Manang via the high pass of Thorang la and the trail also joins from the upper Mustang region, in the auspicious time this place is flooded with pilgrims both Hindu and Buddhist, a nice walk to the Temple of Muktinath and with its 108 water spout, which is also the source of Kaligandaki river. Fabulous views of Mt. Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peak including Tilicho and Nilgiri's peaks towards the left.

Day 13: Trek back to Jomsom

Retracing the journey back to Jomsom diverting the path to Kagbeni, leading straight to Eklebhatti with another two hours to Jomsom for the final night of this great trip.

Day 14: Fly to Pokhara, full day sightseeing, evening free for boating at Fewa Lake.

30m fly BB Plan Hotel/Resort

A morning short scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara and then free for personal activities or any other activities in the beautiful city Pokhara.

Day 15: Drive or Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu.

6hrs drive/25min fly BB Plan Hotel/Resort

Morning or afternoon flight to Kathmandu as per the flight schedule, this scenic flight from Pokhara takes the half-hour or less to Kathmandu, a panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks can be seen from the plane. Arriving at Kathmandu domestic terminal, Nepal Dream Path Treks staff will transfer back to Hotel after an amazing time in the Annapurna region of Nepal with Nepal Dream Path Treks.

Day 16: free for personal activities in Kathmandu

A free day in Kathmandu, inform Nepal Dream Path Treks staff for another short tour in and around Kathmandu Valley on request, evening join with Nepal Dream Path Trek’s farewell dinner program which helps to share the experience of the entire Annapurna round trek with us.

Day 17: International departure.

Today as per your international flight time, Nepal Dream Path Treks staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from this wonderful high Himalayan country, Nepal with the memory of Annapurna and Kali Gandaki valley Trek with the Nepal Dream Path Team.

• Altitude Chart

Equipment List

• Worm hat (it means worm one to protect your head from cold)
• Sun Cream/lip guard
• Tooth pest/Brush/soap
• Down Jacket
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Jumper/fleece jacket
• Long underwear
• Windbreaker trouser
• Cotton socks
• Trekking boots
• Sewing kits
• Water bottle
• Swiss knife
• Extra batteries
• Raincoat/ Umbrella
• Rucksacks(For a Day)
• Sleeping Bag
• Medical & first aid kit
• Trekking Crampon (If you are going to do a trek in winter then you need a Crampon for your trekking.)

What's included?

• All transportation and Arrival, Departure transfers as per the Itinerary.
• Standard Accommodation in the cities and tea houses on the trek.
• Full-day guided tour of Kathmandu.
• 3 meals a day during the trek.
• Guide, porters, and other support staff as per your requirement and our agreed price.
• Trekker’s information management system (TIMS) card fee.
• Necessary equipment during the trek.
• All taxes and fees are required for the program.

What's not included?

• Meals in the cities.
• Personal expenses (Laundry, bar bills, water, etc)
• Travel Insurance (Essential).
• Personal trekking gears are not mentioned in the contract.
• Tips for staff.

Trip Reviews

Annapurna kali gandaki.

I had seen photos of Mustang so i decided to go there. It was heaven on earth. Next time I am planning on going to upper mustang. Thank You DP for guiding me and sharing all the information.

Mt Everest Base Camp Trekking Nepal with Base Camp Excursion

Base camp trekking in Nepal travel agency Kathmandu

Kali Gandaki valley trek to discover deepest gorge in the world

Kali gandaki valley trek to discover deepest gorge in the world.

Kali gandaki valley trek is popular for to explore the Andha Galchi or Kali Gandaki Gorge the deepest gorge in the world at dana, Myagdi. It is situated between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massif.  Where you will enjoy the spectacular Himalayan views , Rupse Chhahara (waterfall) and desiccated landscape and mixed culture .

Kali Gandaki valley offer incredible close-up views of Dhaulagiri , Nilgiri and Annapurna range . Highlights of this trek are the Himalayas , Thakali and Gurung cultural heritage etc. Tea house trekking facility available in Kali Gandaki valley trail and follows the Kali Gandaki river. it is best trip to see the Dhaulagiri ice-fall, trip start with Pokhara to Jomsom flight then trekking ascend towards Kagbeni and Muktinath .

After exploring Jomsom valley, Muktinath temple and lower mustang arid landscape like Tibet then trekking descend towards ethnic villages Tukuche, Ghasa, Marpha Tatopani, sikha and Ghorepani . Travelers explore the the deepest George in the world situated between two Himalayan giants, Dhaulagiri I (8,167m) and Annapurna I (8,091m). Hiking to poon hill offers spectacular panorama of Himalayan range, trekking continue via rhododendron forest, Gurung settlements to reach Pokhara.

For Kali Gandaki valley trek it is not necessary previous trekking experience, normal physical condition is enough best season for this trek are February to May and August to December but it can be arrange in year round. If given itinerary is not suitable for you, we design another itinerary as per your desire and duration of holidays contact us.

Kali gandaki valley trek itinerary

Day 01: Welcome to Nepal , upon your arrival in Nepal our representative welcome and assists to transfer hotel, evening welcome dinner.

Day 02: Kathmandu city tours and preparation for Kali gandaki trek .

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m)

Day 04: Flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (2720m).

Day 05: Trek from Jomsom to Muktinath (3760m).

Day 06: Trek from Muktinath to Kagbeni (2800m)

Day 07: Trek from Kagbeni to Marpha (2670m).

Day 08: Trek from Marpha to Larjung (2550m).

Day 09: Trek from Larjung to Ghasa (2010m).

Day 10: Trek from Ghasa to Tatopani (1190m).

Day 11: Trek from Tatopani to Shikha (1935m).

Day 12: Trek from Shikha to Ghorepani (2860m).

Day 13: Trek from Ghorepani to Tikhedunga (1480m).

Day 14: Trek to Nayapul then drive to Pokhara (820m).

Day 15: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu , evening farewell dinner.

Day 16: After this amazing Kali gandaki valley trek if you are interested for other activities like Safari , Rafting , Biking , Tours , Peak climbing or more trekking in other region we organize trip according to your desire. If you decide to leave Nepal we will transfer to airport for your onward destination.

Service include

#Airports pick up and drop by private vehicle

#Hotel in Kathmandu for 3 Nights twin sharing with breakfast

#Full day guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu

#Transportation from Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu by drive/flight

#All meals and accommodation during Kaligandaki trekking period

#An experienced English speaking guide trained by gov. of Nepal

#Highly experienced trekking staffs

#All governmental procedure permits fees and local taxes

#Down jacket, sleeping bag, duffel bag (optional), medical kit etc

#Travel and rescue arrangements

#Farewell dinner at typical Nepalese restaurant

Service exclude

*Visa fees/ international airfare to and from Kathmandu

*Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu

*Travel / medical insurance and emergency evacuation cost

*Hot shower, battery recharge during the trek

*Personal expenses phone calls, bar bills, extra porters etc

*Personal Kaligandaki valley trekking equipment / gears

*Tips for guides, porters and driver

*All others expenses not mentioned on price include section

Base Camp Excursion , Kathmandu , Nepal , always thinking about guest’s safety; it is our paramount concern whilst traveling with us. Trekking is an adventure tour we reach remote mountain region. Sometime health condition of member, natural disaster, and weather condition of mountain region changed unexpectedly we cannot guarantee it. Please note that trekking guide has the authority to cancel any part of Kali gandaki valley trekking itinerary if it is necessary due to safety concerns, be prepared to be flexible if required, otherwise trekking group leader follow the above itinerary.

Additional information

Content of this site provide you the information as possible about Kali gandaki valley trekking package . If you need extra information and wish to discuss any aspect of Kali gandaki valley trek trip or your suitability for it please contact us; If you would like to speak with a reservations consultant, feel free to make a call at 977 9843051359

• ← Around Dhaulagiri circuit trek via Italian camp, French Col
• Churen Himal trek to explore Churen Himal base camp Nepal →

Wayfarers Himalaya Journeys

Tours and trekking in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan since 1993

The Kali Gandaki Trek

Grade 1 2 3 4 5, grade 3 – challenging.

Click here for a full explanation of Trip Difficulty Grading

Trek Difficulty Grading

Our treks vary from easy hikes in the foothills to challenging climbing adventures in the high Himalaya. More often than not, we use trails that have since ancient times been the only link between villages, settlements, and their inhabitants. The trails may take you through a well-inhabited area with many villages and tea-shops, or through a mountain wilderness without a single permanent settlement for days, but one thing is certain: there'll be lots of ups and downs as we walk from one Himalayan valley to another. Treks are graded on the basis of altitude, trails, walking hours per day, and length of trek.

Grade 1 – Easy

Grade 2 – moderate, grade 4 – demanding, note on altitudes.

16 days – The best of the Annapurna region in a 12-day lodge trek

12 days challenging trekking in the trans-himalaya / middle hills (maximum elevation 3,800m / 12,460′), spectacular views of the dhaulagiri and annapurna himal ranges, amazing diversity of topography, flora & fauna, and people & culture, visit the shrine of muktinath, sacred to hindu & buddhist pilgrims.

This fascinating trek begins in Nepal’s northernmost ramparts in the Thak Khola Canyon, as the Kali Gandaki is known in its upper reaches. You explore the arid, Tibet-like semi-desert biotope of the trans-Himalaya and visit the renowned pilgrimage site of Muktinath. Our trek follows the river southward as it cuts its way down between the two 8,000m / 26,000′ massifs of the Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna Himal. Colorful mule caravans can to this day be seen plying the historic salt trade route between the lowlands of the Great Indian Plains and the elevated Tibetan plateau, demarcated by the impenetrable Himalaya. The diversity of the people, flora & fauna is as phenomenal as the scenery – dominated by the majestic summits of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges – is ever-changing. At Poon Hill we are rewarded with the opportunity to take in our journey down the interlocking spurs of the Kali Gandaki, put in perspective by the summits of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Himal.

This trip makes for an excellent first-time Nepal trek, offering the best of the spectacular Annapurna region in Central Nepal.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1  Arrival and orientation. Day 2  Morning drive to Pokhara . Rest of day at leisure. Days 3-5   Fly Pokhara (884m / 2,900′) to Jomsom (2,760m / 9,050′); trek to Muktinath (3,800m / 12,460′) via Kagbeni (2,840m / 9,320′) and Jharkot  (3,500m / 11,480′). Days 6-7   Trek to  Marpha  (2,680m / 8,790′) via  Lupra (3,000m / 9,840′) and  Dhumba Lake (2,830m / 9,280′). Days 8-10  Trek down the Kali Gandaki gorge to Tatopani  (1,190m / 3,900′) via Titi Lake (2,670m / 8,760′) and  Ghasa (2,000m / 6,560′). Days 11-12   Leave the Kali Gandaki to head up to  Ghorepani  (2,870m / 9,410′). Days 13-14   Early morning climb Poon Hill (3,210m / 10,530′) for a dawn panorama of the Central Nepal Himalaya. Finish trek at Nayapul (900m / 2,950′), drive to Pokhara . Day 15  Drive to Kathmandu . Day 16   Depart for onward destination.

Dates and Pricing

• Hotel Selection

Jan 29 - Feb 13 Feb 12 - Feb 27

Suggested Trips

Annapurna Experience

Monsoon Nepal

The Khayer Lake Trek

Annapurna Sanctuary

Everest Adventure

Everest Endeavor

Nepal Govt. Reged. number: 39829/2005

Tourism License number: 805/2005

VAT/TAX Number: 302385791

Gokyo Treks Nepal

Nepal Trekking Agency

From 2015 - 2024 contineously

+977 9841 249 988

[email protected]

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek

Home » Kali Gandaki Valley Trek

Based on 2 Reviews

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Summary

• Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Duration: 8 Days
• Trek Difficulty: Easy Grade
• Highest Elevation: 3,800m/12,468 feet
• Walk Hour: 6 Hours daily
• Trekking Group – Size: 1 – 14 People
• Foods and Trek: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Best Months to Explore: March, April, May, October, November and December.
• Trip Mode: Guest House Basis
• Transportation: Car/Plane/bus

The Kali Gandaki Valley Trek explores the tremendous diversity of the Annapurna region following the old trade route to Tibet along the bank of the Kali Gandaki river valley. The river valley of Kali Gandaki is known as the deepest gorge in the world, Kali Gandaki Gorge is estimated to be roughly 6,000 meters deep. But the very bottom still has yet to be confirmed, while the mountains surrounding it reach an utmost height of 18,000 feet.

Hike at Kali Gandaki is also famous to collect Shaligram fossils, revered as one of five non-living forms of Lord Vishnu. The Kali Gandaki River source coincides with the Tibetan border and the Ganges-Brahmaputra watershed divide. The tributary then flows south through the ancient kingdom of Mustang.

Moreover, the trek attracts over 75% of all trekkers (more than 30,000 annually) visiting the Kali Gandaki Canyon. Likewise, Dhaulagiri Icefall is another top attraction from where the tourist can review the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range across the beautiful Himalayan settlements.

Despite that, the best time to visit Muktinath of Kali Gandaki treks is either in the autumn season or the spring season. In the monsoon months, trekking in this trans-Himalayan zone is not the worst but also not the best for hikes. Weather often gets clean, blue sky with the sun shining and warm enough but often in the afternoon catch the rain.

In addition, the majestic Kali Gandaki Gorge Trek is religiously important to both Hindus and Buddhists. The main shrine is a pagoda-shaped temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu; there are 108 waterspouts around the Temple. Jwala Mai temple nearby contains a spring and an eternal flame fed by natural gas underground. Since ancient times, the divine flames of jwala have been worshiped as Jwaladevi (the goddess of flame).

How much is the Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Package Cost?

The cost of the Kali Gandaki Valley of Muktinath trek package with a Gokyo Trek Agency ranges between US$ 625 to US$ 898. But of course, the Kali Gandaki Valley trek cost depends upon the hiking members that you travel to and the service you choose. However, this package price includes transportation, accommodation, guide and Porter, food, permit cost, etc.

We also have a discount deal for group travel leaders for a hike to Kali Gandaki. For example, if you could bring 10+ travelers (except you) on your trip, you are treated as a group leader. So you can hike the Kali Gandaki territory free of cost.

However, we often arrange private trips in order to avoid group tours with strangers. A private tour gives you a better experience on your hikes. If you value personalization, flexibility, and in-depth experiences, a private trip customized to your personal needs will be the best option.

Its a standard trip package price for 8 days hike to Kali Gandaki and Muktinath temple. If you are 2 visitors Kali Gandaki Valley Trek cost US$ 750 for 8 days as per the given plan. We can modify the trek route and the price as per your wish also. Here is the price list for Kali Gandaki Valley Treks.

Price Per Person for 8 days Kali Gandaki Valley Trek.

If you’re wondering to know about what is included and what is excluded from this trip price, kindly check on the cost given on a tab button.

The best of Kali Gandaki Valley Trek itinerary details

Muktinath tour at Kali Gandaki canyon classical itinerary about 7 nights 8 days compared to most walks in Annapurna mountain trails. The particular Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri hiking route is designed for globetrotters who wish to hike in a more relaxed manner. However for travelers who wish to explore the ice fall view trek quickly but are walking with limited time wise ask us for a tailor-made itinerary.

Guide will meet you at your hotel and drive to Gongabhu Bus station to get a regular coach to New Bridge [sharing]. Drive with a regular bus, you will have beautiful landscapes on the way passing some of the most scenic places in Pokhara city. The total length is 240.3 kilometers and takes about nine hours roughly.

Optional: You can take a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara [airfare cost US$ 95 per person] paying an extra cost for each foreigner, takes only 25 minutes then we drive to New Bridge with a private taxi. Birethanti village is a scenic place of beautiful lodges and center points for the Modi River valley.

Today, for the first part of the journey, we take a local bus near to Tikhedungha settlements takes about two hours drive. From Tikhedungha, we start our hike by ascending stones steeply for the first 2 hours and ascending softly passing through Ulleri (2,070m.) and Banthanti.

Additionally, you will see a good view of Machhapuchhare known as Mount Fish Tail (6,997m.), mount Hiunchuli (6,441m), and as well as Annapurna South (7,219m). Now, our trail is quite easier passing through Rhododendron shadow trees and ascending gently up to the final steps at Ghorepani guest houses in upper Ghorepani village.

Wake up and check sunrise time in Poon Hill today. Hike early in the morning to reach Poon Hill at 3,220m to get an impressive rising sun. It is the highest hill station to achieve the best-rising sun in the morning.

Tourists can get the rising sun with rays at Dhaulagiri (8,167m.), Tukuche Peak (6,920m.), Nilgiri (6,940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7,847m.), Mount Annapurna I (8,091m.), Annapurna South (7,219m.), Mt. Annapurna III (7,855m.), Machhapuchhare (6,993m.), Annapurna IV (7,525m.), Annapurna II (7,937m.), Lamjung Himal (6,931m.)..etc. Moreover, there are other numerous snow-capped shining mountains together with those popular mountains in a row.

While on a hike, we walk through nice villages, and the Rhododendron forest, the beautiful flower makes the jungle colorful in spring when they bloom. Descend downhill to get a hot delicious breakfast at Ghorepani Lodge and continuously walk downhill all the way to Tatopani. Tatopani is a local Nepali name for a natural hot spring.

Follow the trail that ascends gently up the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, towards Dana village surrounded by orange groves. During the Annapurna trails, you come across locals who are selling oranges. Just beyond the small hamlet of Rupse, a thundering waterfall cascades down beside the trail.

Rupse is a gorgeous waterfall in Nepal and one of the top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Thereafter, the trail enters the steepest and narrowest section of the gorge. You will find the layered stone path well-constructed and wide. Continuously hike towards Ghasa recognized as a Thakali village where you see several flat-roofed Tibetan-style houses.

The trek ascends crossing the wide valley of Kaligandaki. Throughout the trek, you can enjoy the Thakali villages with a sparse population of Gurung, Thakali, and a few Tibetans. Larjung village is a gateway to hiking to Dhaulagiri Icefall which takes about 3 days (optional).

Continue to hike through Kali Gandaki riverside across the Apple orchard, you can eat apples if it happens to be the fruit season. Marpha is a big community enriched by a Buddhist Monastery in between just the village.

You continue to follow the wide valley of the Kali Gandaki, passing several villages. The wind generally picks up after about midday, but will at least be blowing at our backs as you head up to Jomsom (2,730m/8,955 feet). Jomsom is the district headquarter of Mustang district, Nepal.

Later on, the landscape becomes increasingly arid and impressive with its mixture of browns, yellows, and grey, contrasting with the white snowcaps mountain. Kagbeni is another important pilgrimage site and a gateway to exploring Lomanthang. As you reach Jharkot, you can visit an ancient Shakya Monastery believed to be built in the 15 century.

In the morning, you can visit the Muktinath temple, an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Buddhists. Visit the divine Gods and Goddess and continue to ramble across Natural flaming which really exhilarates you.

Likewise, you can enjoy a holy bath at 108 Mukti Dhara to get enlightenment. From the Muktinath temple garden, you can see an excellent view of Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Nilgiri (7,061m.)..etc. Descend to the hotel for breakfast, collect your all gear, and retrace your foot steps to Jomsom Bazaar. If you are fit enough after reaching Jomsom, make a plan to go to Dhumba Lake.

Optional day hikes to get to Dhumba Lake

Dhumba Lake is a wonderful, clear water lake located at the Mount Nilgiri Base Camp. Trekkers can reach Dumba Lake walking about 5.5 kilometers from Jomsom airport. You can begin the trek by coming to Jomsom Bus Park and intersecting the wooden extension there to arrive at the left half of the runway. Along the journey, you’ll locate a signboard pointing towards the best approach to Dhumba Lake/Thini Village.

The principal achievement of the trek to get to ancient Thini Village is roughly 5 kilometers from Jomsom. The following half-kilometer trek will take you to Dhumba Village and thusly to Dhumba Lake. The backdrop of Dumba Lake is the Himalayas, which are outstanding.

Additionally, there is a small rest stop near the pool. There’s also a circumferential path to walk around the lake to better enjoy the natural beauty. In the evening you celebrate the trek completion party with the trekking crew.

Get the early flight takes about only 25 minutes to reach Pokhara. The flights are available in the morning time. The strong breeze blows during and after and frequent changes in the weather prevent the flight from being landed and taken off in the afternoon.

During the flights in the morning, the sky looks very clear. So you are amazed at the Annapurna Himalaya best view and return to Kathmandu by Bus. Our trip ends, and we wish you your wonderful journey further.

Not satisfied with above plan?

Are you interested in planning a custom trip? this might take 2 to 3 minutes.

How much does Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Package Price?

This given 8 days Kali Gandaki valley trek package price price start at US$ 625 and might reach up to US$ 898 per person on double occupancy basis. Taking flights to and from Pokhara saves your time and riding the bus minimize the trip expenses. Gokyo Treks and Expedition agency notify this express Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Package price for 2024 and 2025 based on group size you are travelling with.

For deluxe and luxury trekking plans, we add Kathmandu – Pokhara – Kathmandu round trip airfare, 3-5 star category hotel deluxe air-conditioned rooms in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast.

Likewise, hotel accommodation with attached toilet/bathroom in the possible places en route. WE ARE OPEN TO CUSTOMIZING YOUR TOUR AND PACKAGE PRICE AS PER YOUR REQUIREMENTS.

Kaligandaki Valley Trek Tour Package Price includes:-

• Kathmandu international airport transfer with a private car/taxi /Van.
• Single night double bedroom accommodation on a tourist standard in Kathmandu.
• Domestic flight: Jomsom to Pokhara city airfare with an applicable tax on your return.
• 7 Breakfast serve with a cup of tea/coffee, 7 Lunch and 7 Dinner [main course] at Kaligandaki valley trek tours.
• 7 nights Guest house basis trekking accommodation (with a common toilet) while on Mustang trekking days.
• Regular Bus (Baglung Bus Yatayat) transfer from Kathmandu to New Bridge, Kaski district [shared].
• Fully escorted trek with English-speaking license holder local trekking guide.
• An assistant guide will provide for 7 plus group tourists.
• Professional porter to carry your luggage (2 guest = 1 Porter basis). Because each porter carries a maximum of 24 kilos of Tourist backpacks.
• Annapurna Conservation Area permits (ACAP) and TIMS permits for Kaligandaki Valley Treks.
• Pokhara airport to the hotel on Phewa lakeside with a private taxi transfer.
• Insurance, Food and accommodation, and salary of Nepali trekking Guide and porter.
• Agency’s duffel bag (50 liters capacity) and trekking poles if Necessary – return after hikes.
• First aid medical kit including Oximeter to check your Oxygen level, Pulse rate every day to save from high altitude risk.
• Updated Muktinath trek map and trek completion certificate – keep as a souvenir.
• Nepal Government Tax, VAT, and as well as Company service charge.

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Package Price Excludes:-

• Lunch and Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara city.
• Any kinds of battery charges, laundry service, phone calls, and hot showers during the trekking.
• Tourist personal trekking types of equipment and Clothing.
• Personal nature expenses, all types of beverage drink bills.
• Travel Insurance which covers emergency rescue, evacuation, personal loss, or damage.
• Donation and monuments entrance fees.
• Gratuities for guide and porters [Tip is a culture, so they expect highly].

We can organize a private Kali Gandaki Valley Trek or Muktinath Tour starting on any date that works for you. Please contact us for more information.

Guaranteed – Trip is Guaranteed to run.

Available – Trip is available to run if minimum group size is filled

Limited – Only few space available

Question: Do I need the experience to do Kali Gandaki Valley Trekking?

Answer: You don’t need extensive trekking experience for the Kali Gandaki Valley Trek, but it’s helpful to have some hiking experience and be in good physical condition. Its moderate in difficulty, with some steep ascents and descents, so being prepared physically will enhance your enjoyment of the trek.

Question: Is pick up service available on my arrival day in Kathmandu airport?

Answer: Certainly! Please provide us with your flight details, including the flight number and landing time, and request a pickup. Our representative will meet you at Kathmandu International Airport for your convenience.

Question: Can I store my luggage/stuff in Kathmandu?

Answer: Yes, you can store your luggage or belongings in Kathmandu at our office is for free. Many hotels, guesthouses also offer storage facilities for a fee. It’s a convenient option if you’re planning to go trekking or traveling and want to lighten your load. Just make sure to inquire about the security of the storage area before leaving your belongings.

Question: Is Muktinath Annapurna trekking Safe for a solo female trekkers?

Answer: Yes, this Gosaikunda Lakes trek is widely regarded as safe for solo female trekkers. However, as with any trekking adventure, it’s crucial to take precautions and remain aware of your surroundings.

Our team consists of honest and friendly guides who treat every trekker like a family member. We have been organizing treks for solo female travelers since our establishment, ensuring their safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.

Question: What kind of accommodation and food can I expect?

Answer: Traveler’s can expect normal available lodges, with twin-sharing rooms and common bathrooms. Usually they provide mattress and blankets, but you might want to bring a sleeping bag for extra warmth and comfort.

Regarding food, most tea houses offer a variety of meals includes Nepali, Tibetan, Indian, and continental dishes. You can expect dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, soup, bread, and other local dishes. Nevertheless, we suggest to stick to vegetarian options, as meat can be difficult to store at higher altitudes and not fresh.

Question: What opportunities will I have for a shower?

Answer: During the Kali Gandaki valley lodge trekking, you’ll have opportunities for showers at tea houses or lodges where you’ll stay overnight. But hot showers may not always be available for a free of charge.

Question: How do I get drinking water on a short Jomsom Muktinath Lodge Trek?

Answer: There are plenty of hotels along the Kali Gandaki Valley trekking routes where you can purchase bottled mineral water. However, we recommend avoiding plastic bottles due to the lack of disposal facilities. Tourists can instead purchase safe drinking water or use AQUA tablets to purify the available normal water at the campsites along the way.

Question: Can I charge my mobile phone or digital camera on my trip?

Answer: Lodges at Kali Gandaki valley routes will have a changing places to recharge battery. We recommend you bring an extra pair in case. Remember to bring your adapters! an extra battery will be recommended.

Question: Are there any communication facilities?

Answer: Yes, there are communication facilities available on the Kali Gandaki Valley trekking route, including phone service and internet access in many lodges and tea houses. However, the quality and availability of these services can vary depending on the location and altitude.

Question: Can I use a credit card for payment in Kali Gandaki Valley Treks?

Answer: It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to use a credit card for payments along the Kali Gandaki Valley trekking route. It’s recommended to carry enough cash (Nepalese Rupees) to cover your personal expenses, as ATM facilities are limited, especially in more remote areas.

Question: When should I book my trip and what are the payment terms?

Answer: To ensure a smooth booking process and avoid any misunderstandings, we recommend booking our trips well in advance, as they often fill up months ahead. However, we do our best to accommodate last-minute bookings if space is available.

For reservations, we request a 15% advance deposit of the total trip price to confirm your booking before your arrival in Nepal. The remaining payment can be settled upon your arrival.

Question: Who will carry my luggage on the Kali Gandaki valley Trek?

Answer: We provide porters to transfer your luggage. As we are a responsible trekking tour operator agency, each of our porters carries a maximum of 24 kilos of your backpack which means 2 guests (12 kilos luggage of each guest): 1 porter basis.

Question: How much distance do I walk each day?

Answer: The distance you cover on hiking each day can vary greatly due to gradient, terrain, and altitude. As such it is very hard to give specific distances for each day, however, you need to prepare to walk roughly about 5 to 6 hours to cover an average of 10 to 12 kilometers.

Question: Is it possible to hire a local expert guide for Kali Gandaki valley Lodge trekking?

Answer: Yes of course. If you are travelling in a tight budget for Kali Gandaki valley trekking routes and have no wish to book the complete full board package trek, you can hire our expert local guide to make your holiday tour safer. Email to us to get a cost quotation for a local guide hiring in details.

Question: Do I need walking poles?

Answer: It is better to hike with walking poles. Learn how to use trekking poles for balance and stability, whether on the sidewalk or on trails. Walking poles can help prevent slips and falls. They are suggested but not necessary.

Question: How much additional money do I need per day?

Answer: You can allocate US$ 08 – 10 for a lunch/dinner in Kathmandu and it depends on your spending habits. US$ 7 to 10 US$ each day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, tea coffee, and some drinks while you are on your trek.

The best Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Highlights and its side trips

• See the Mount Annapurna mountain range within 160 deg angle from poon hill sites
• Hike Dumba lake in Mustang is also beautifully located on the foothill of Nilgiri Mountain.
• Most demanding trek tour by Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage devotees.
• Natural hot spring TATOPANI, beautiful Rupse cascade along the trek routes.
• Experience the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali ethnic groups and their way of life.

How to reach Muktinath?

Check with us the regular price from Pokhara to Muktinath jeep fare if you are driving by local or private jeep. The price variation is on the months that you are traveling.

Another interesting fact is, that you can Muktinath yatra by helicopter from Pokhara. In the high season, we also use charter flights from Kathmandu to the Muktinath helicopter, the fare is roughly US$ 4,300 for each charter helicopter.

In addition, if you travel to Beni then Beni to Jomsom distance is 95.7 kilometers, and possible to reach with an overland drive in 6 hours 30 minutes. However, if you are traveling for only 2/3 days and want to visit Muktinath temple? then choose the flight option. We recommend you take Kathmandu to Muktinath by flight to get to Muktinath as the quickest way if you have a group of travelers.

Notice for the Kali Gandaki Valley Trekkers!

The Jomsom airport to Muktinath temple tour information stated above is just a standard template guideline. However, the tour is possible to amend your request to accommodate your specific requirements? Local politics, landslides, cancellation of local flights, weather, transport, or a multitude of other factors that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary during on trip.

Likewise, tourist standards luxury hotels in Jomsom and as well as in Muktinath are available at extra cost. Because of the Muktinath tour package what we have designed is on a double occupancy basis for travelers in standard lodge accommodations.

It is, however, very incredible that the itinerary would be extensively altered. If alterations are necessary the leader will decide the best alternative option, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. When a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.

What makes Kali Gandaki Valley Trek trip special?

Hike at Kali Gandaki Gorge is an amazing trip for your life journey. However, opportunities for challenging similar trekking are scattered all over this planet. You just need to know where to find them. We at Gokyo Treks and Expedition believe in quality services. Your safety and satisfaction is our concern.

We are a team of professional, experienced, well-trained, and licensed local guides who know the destination much better than others. Not only this but also we give benefits to the local communities and help to conserve natural resources which reduced costs and consumption.

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek Review

Kali gandaki and dumba lake trek just awesome.

Back in 2010, our journey with Ammar began, and since then, he has been instrumental in organizing several memorable hikes for us and our friends. One such unforgettable adventure took place in September 2017 when we embarked on a hike to Muktinath.

It was during this expedition that Ammar, the ever-attentive guide, recommended a visit to the serene Dumba Lake as an optional addition to our itinerary. Without hesitation, we embraced the suggestion, and it turned out to be a stroke of brilliance, providing us with an experience that surpassed even our great trip to Muktinath. Dumba Lake’s tranquil ambiance, far from the clamor of civilization, left an enduring impression on us.

For genuine hiking enthusiasts yearning to explore the mesmerizing beauty of Mustang, Dumba Lake trekking is an absolute must. Ammar, as our dedicated guide, took care of every detail, expertly handling lodge bookings, porter arrangements, private jeeps, permits, and even securing our flights from Jomsom to Pokhara. His meticulous planning ensured a smooth and hassle-free journey.

With immense gratitude, we extend our thanks once again to Ammar and his team for making our adventures truly extraordinary. Looking forward to our next venture with you guys!

Response from Gokyo Treks Nepal

Dear Dr. Isable T,

We are absolutely delighted by your wonderful review about Kali Gandaki and Dumba Lake. Your satisfaction is of utmost importance to us, and we are overjoyed that you had a fantastic experience with our services. We can’t express how grateful we are for your kind words.

Your appreciation motivates us to continually strive for excellence in delivering exceptional Himalayan adventures. We eagerly look forward to serving you again on another remarkable trip in the near future. Your return will be a true pleasure for us.

Thank you once again for choosing us and for sharing your positive feedback. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or if there’s anything else we can assist you with.

Warm regards, Ammar Raj Guni

Best Trek Operator

We have done 2 treks with Ammar and his crew. Our guide, Som, was fantastic and the porters were happy and reliable. Ammar is great to deal with. We are coming again next year and will use Gokyo Treks. Dr Rob H Australia

Thank you Robert Hilton for your feedback regarding Kali Gandaki valley trekking in Nepal.

From US$ 945

Quick Inquiry

No of People : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Cost & Departures

Your Trip Your Style!

ITINERARY, COST, DEPARTURES, will adjusted according to your GROUP SIZE NEED TIME

Book with Confidence

• Local Guides Company.
• 18 Years in Business.
• Lowest Price Guaranteed.
• 100% Customizable Trips
• Excellent Customer Service
• Hassle Free Booking.
• 90 % Repeated customers
• Highly Recommended agency
• Private/group tour options

Useful Information

• Trek in Nepal Himalayas
• Altitude Sickness
• Foods on the Trekking
• Trek Porters and Guides
• Trek TIMS Permit
• Trekking Equipment List
• Trek Permits & Fees
• Best Season for trek
• Trek Difficulty/Grade
• How to get Nepal Visa

Add on Safari Trip

• Chitwan Jungle Safari
• Bardia Jungle Safari
• Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

Extra Fun on Adventures

• Mount Everest Flight
• Everest Helicopter Travel
• Bungy Jump Tour
• Paragliding Flight
• River Rafting
• Experience Zipline
• Wild Honey Hunting
• Mountain Biking

Book My Trip

• Booking Terms - Condition
• How to make Payment

Trek & Return with Heli

• Trek to Langtang with heli return
• EBC Trek with a Heli return
• Gokyo Trek with a Heli return
• Trek to ABC with a Heli return
• Tours by Helicopter in Nepal

Reference Contact

• Germany : Klaus Kummer
• Germany : Martin Aigner
• Austria : Verena Laner
• Austria : Dorothee Plunger
• Chicago: Beth Pekol
• Australia: Mark Panico
• Zürich: Marta Blickenstorfer

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek

• Duration: 14 Days

Lodge to Lodge Trek

Private transport+tourist bus, breakfast + lunch + dinner, lodge to lodge, group size: 1-16 pax, highlights of kali gandaki valley trek.

• Cultural heritage tour in Kathmandu.
• Beautiful lake city Pokhara.
• Poonhill viewpoint to see Stunning mountain view and Sunrise.
• Natural hot spring.
• Delightful fresh apple and it's brandy and cider.
• A big Rupse Waterfall.
• World's deepest Kaligandaki gorge.
• Wide Kaligandaki valley and Saligrama (Fossil).
• Beautiful villages like Kagbeni and Jharkot.
• The caves for the meditation.
• Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and Hindu famous temple Muktinath.
• Natural gas flame.
• Scenic mountain flight from Jomsom to Pokhara.

About Kali Gandaki Valley Trek

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek is also known as Jomsom Muktinath Trek and Muktinath Pilgrimage Trek . It is located in the lower Mustang Region. It is a relatively easy trek. Muktinath Temple is around 3800 meters, so acclimatization is needed to avoid mountain sickness. Trekkers can see different snow-capped Himalayas and diverse flora and fauna. During the Trek, you walk through the world's deepest gorge- Kali Gandaki.

Barley, rice, millet, potatoes, and other seasonal vegetables are grown in the Trekking Area. The first part of the Trek is Poon Hill. It is the best viewpoint of white peaks, hills, and gorges in the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri region. Walking through the rhododendron forest , you reach Tatopani (natural hot spring). After heading through the bank of the Kali Gandaki River, the jaw-dropping rock walls make the trek awe-inspiring. The sacred stone (Shaligrams) is found at the bank of the River. Several waterfalls lie on the way. Reaching Kalopani and Marpha, you move towards Kagbeni , a gateway to Upper Mustang. The apple orchard in Kaligandaki Valley Trekking is lovely. Marpha is known as the delightful apple capital city of Nepal, and they also make Brandi, cider, and Apple pie from apples. Thakali people from Thakkhola are renowned for serving delicious meals. Typical Nepali food- Dal Bhat is what they offer the most delicious. Muktinath Temple is a step ahead from here. Muktinath Trek is equally famous for the pilgrimage devotees. Hindu and Buddhist followers conduct this journey to avoid their lifetime sins. The tour ends in Jomsom after you retrace from Muktinath.

Frolic Adventure offers a T rek to Muktinath with experienced guides and the required arrangements. We recommend the Jomsom Muktinath Trek if you are searching for the proper destination with the soft trail. Please, contact us for more details.

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1350m.) and transfer to hotel.

We will be greeted by a representative from Frolic Adventure at the Kathmandu international airport and takes us by private transport to our hotel, where we will meet a manager from the company and talk about the trip. Overnight at the hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Place: Kathmandu
• Altitude: 1350m.
• Mode of Transportation: Private Car/Van/Bus
• Departure Time: According to the arrival time

Day 02: Full day cultural sightseeing.

• Departure Time: 9:00 am

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (820m.) 6 hrs.

• Place: Pokhara
• Altitude: 820m.
• Mode of Transportation: Tourist Bus
• Departure Time: 7:00 am

Day 04: Drive to Nayapul (1070m.) and trek to Tikhedhunga (1540m.) 4 hrs.

• Meals: Breakfast+Lunch+Dinner
• Accommodation: Lodge
• Place: Tikhedhunga
• Altitude: 1540m.
• Mode of Transportation: Private Car/Van/Bus + Walk
• Departure Time: 8:00 am

Day 05: Trek from Nayapul to Ghorepani (2,850m.) 6-7 hrs.

• Place: Ghorepani
• Altitude: 2850m.
• Mode of Transportation: Walk

Day 06: Hike up to Poon Hill (3210m.) and trek to Tatopani (1190m.) 6 hrs.

• Place: Tatopani
• Altitude: 1190m.
• Departure Time: 5:00 am

Day 07: Trek from Tatopani to Kalopani (2530m.) 5-6 hrs.

• Place: Kalopani
• Altitude: 2530m.

Day 08: Trek from Kalopani to Marpha (2670m.) 5 hrs.

• Place: Marpha
• Altitude: 2670m.

Day 09: Trek from Marpha to Kagbeni (2800m.) 5-6 hrs.

• Place: Kagbeni
• Altitude: 2800m.

Day 10: Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath (3760m.) 5 hrs.

• Place: Muktinath
• Altitude: 3760m.

Day 11: Trek back to Jomsom (2720m.) 5 hrs.

• Place: Jomsom
• Altitude: 2720m.

Day 12: Morning flight o Pokhara, explore around Lake city.

• Mode of Transportation: Domestic flight + Private Car/Van/Bus
• Departure Time: 6:30 - 9:00 am

Day 13: Drive back to Kathmandu ( 6 hrs.) Fare well dinner with Frolic Adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast+Dinner
• Departure Time: 7:30 am

Day 14: Departure to the international airport for your final flight.

• Place: Home
• Departure Time: 3 hours earlier from the departure flight time

Cost Details

What's included.

• Airport picks up and drops by private car/van/bus.
• 3 nights Accommodation in tourist standard hotel including breakfast as per the above itinerary twin sharing basis.
• Private car/van/bus and a guide for the cultural tour 
• All the ground transportation in the city and air transportation to the mountain.
• Your standard meal BLD during the trek with a cup of hot tea/coffee for breakfast
• Fresh fruit after every dinner in the mountain
• All necessary papers works, conservation area entry permits, TIMS cards, and monument entrance fees
• All accommodations in lodges/tea houses during the treks.
• An experienced, helpful, and friendly guide, porters (1 porter for 2 people).
• Salary, food, drinks, accommodation, transportation, and insurance for the guide and porter.
• An arrangement of an emergency helicopter service will be paid for by your travel insurance company.
• Sleeping bag, down jackets, and duffle bags if you don't have 
• Frolic Adventure invites you to farewell dinner last night.
• All government taxes (Gst) and Stationery expenses.

What's not included

• Nepal entry visa fee (you may easily issue the visa upon your arrival at Tribhuvan international airport  (Kathmandu). 
• Your travel insurance (compulsory).
• Lunch and dinner while you are in the cities of Kathmandu & Pokhara.
• All entry fees for heritage sites.
• Your personal expenses.
• All the alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Sweet things like dessert/chocolate.
• Hot shower/batteries charge/heater during the trek.
• International airfare.
• Tips for the guide, porter & driver. 
• Any others expenses which are not mentioned in including section.

Talk to Leader

Rajesh thapaliya, +977 9851043624 (call/whatsapp/viber), similar trips.

Poon Hill Trek

One of the short and easy mountain trips in Nepal's Annapurna region is the Ghorepani ...

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek in the Annapurna region is a perfect mountain trip in Nepal ...

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit Trek (ACT) is the most adventurous lodge trekking in the Annapurna region. ...

Dhampus Sarangkot Trek

Dhampus Sarangkot Trek is an easy trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is ...

Annapurna View Trek

Annapurna View Trek is one of the best trekking in the Annapurna region. It is in ...

Khopra Danda Trek

Khopra Danda Trek is one of the recently opened short and easy Annapurna regions Trekking with ...

Mohare Danda Trek

Mohara Danda Trek is a short mountain trip in the Annapurna Region. It is perfect ...

Ghorepani Poon Hill Student Tour

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek is one of Nepal's most beautiful, famous, and easy trekking. This trek ...

Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek - 6 Days

The Short Annapurna Base Camp Trek is the shortest itinerary that takes you from Pokhara to ...

Annapurna Circuit Tilicho Lake Trek

Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek is a bold mountain journey in the Annapurna Region. ...

Short Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Short Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the best adventure mountain trips for those ...

Best Nepal Tour

The Best of Nepal Tour Package is an opportunity to experience all the highlighted tourism ...

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trek – also famous as the 'ABC Trek' is an illustrious journey ...

We are Associate and Certified

Registered with: company registration office, government of nepal, licensed by: nepal tourism board & department of tourism, proud member of trekking agency's association of nepal, general member of nepal mountaineering association.

• Kali Gandaki Trekking
• Destinations
• Trekking in Nepal
• Annapurna Trekking

• Duration: 13 Nights 14 Days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Max. Altitude: 3800m
• Group Size: 1-12
• Activity: Hiking and Trekking
• Pick Up: TIA Airport

About Kali Gandaki Trekking

The Kali Gandaki follows the river bed northward to emerge in dry, desert- like Mustang, on the north side of the main Himalayan range. It is essentially the final third of the Annapurna Circuit , done in reverse. The Kali Gandaki is the deepest gorge in the world. It carries water from the Tibetan Plateau southward on its journey toward the Ganges.

This rocky trail between the soaring peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri is suitable for people of all ages who are keen to experience the high Himalayas within a reasonably short time and without ascending to extreme altitude. The Kali Gandaki Trek attracts adventure and nature lovers as well as pilgrims seeking Muktinath, which means the place of salvation. The Muktinath Temple is surrounded by 108 natural stone taps and mysterious natural gas fires.

The Kali Gandaki Trek offers insight into the life of ethnic hill tribes. The most prominent ethnic groups of this region are Gurung, Thakali and Manangba. There are ancient monasteries, caves and amazing scenery to explore. If you look closely you will surely see fossilized ammonites along the upper reaches of the Kali Gandaki River valley. Wildlife includes pika, blue sheep and Himalayan Thar. The Kali Gandaki Trek offers an amazing range of elevation which correlates with a remarkable diversity of flora. The trek begins in sub-tropical lowland forests of oak, bamboo and rhododendron and fertile rice terraces and climbs up to high alpine meadows and the barren windswept desert of the Tibetan Plateau.

The Kali Gandaki Trek is possible at any time of the year. Unlike other parts of Nepal, this area is not affected by the monsoon since the Upper Mustang falls in the rain shadow area. Like most trekking routes in the Annapurna region, this trail is well facilitated by teahouses.

Travel options: There are several options for the Kali Gandaki Trek depending on your preferences. From Kathmandu it is possible to fly or go by road to Pokhara. From Pokhara, it is possible to fly to Jomsom , or to go by road to a trailhead at Nayapul, and trek to Jomsom. The same options apply to the return trip. Just inform us about your preferences and we will supply the itinerary accordingly.

Highlights of Kali Gandaki Trekking

• possible any time of year
• maximum altitude 3800m
• graded moderate - possible for all age groups
• natural hot springs of Tatopani
• culture of ethnic groups of the region
• a glimpse into restricted area of Upper Mustang
• splendid views of Dhaulagiri, 8167m, Annapurna I, 8091m, Mt.Nilgiri, 7040m, Annapurna South, 7219m, Annapurna II, 7937m, Annapurna III, 7555m, Annapurna IV, 7525m, Hiunchuli, 6441m, Fishtail/ Machhapuchhare, 6998m, Tukuche peak 6920m, Lamjung Himal 6586m

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, 1,300 m/4,265 ft

Flying to Kathmandu is in itself an exciting and memorable experience. On a clear day, you will get a panoramic view of the snow-capped towering peaks. After completing the visa formalities in airport, collect your luggage downstairs. As you exit the airport terminal, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives carrying your name on our company’s’ signboard, Annapurna Foothills Treks & Expedition. Moving forward, you’ll be taken to your hotel in our vehicle. Once you reach at hotel, you’ll be welcomed by them as well and after that you can relax in your room or go for a walk exploring the city.

• Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Sight seeing in Kathmandu

After breakfast, we visit Bouddhanath, the Stupa of a Million Dew-Drops. We circumambulate the stupa with monks and devotees. Then we Visit Pashupatinath, Nepal 's most sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer. We watch the Hindu cremation along the banks of the Bagmati River . After visiting Pashupatinath, we drive to Bhaktapur - the City of Devotees . There is a one big museum in Bhaktapur which is famous for temples, palaces and houses dating back several centurie. Finally, we drive back to Kathmandu 

Day 3: Kathmandu to Pokhara, 6-7 hrs, 900 m/2,952 ft

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara early in the morning by tourist bus or Private vehicle passing the River side of Trisuli. It takes about 7 hours to reach in Pokhara valley. We can visit some interesting places like Devi’s Fall, Guptswor Cave, Tal Barahi Temple and boating on Phewa Lake in Pokhara.

Option: We have not included the airfare Kathmandu- Pokhara (USD $125 Per Person). The exciting half hour flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara gives you the feeling of a mountain flight, high in the Himalayas where you can see the Langtang, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you chose to travel to Pokhara by flight, we give free Airport Drop and Pick up. 

Day 4: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Hile, 3 hrs, 1,400 m/4,593 ft

Trek to Hile begins at Nayapul after 1 hour driving by private vehicle from Pokhara. After 15 minutes short walk along the bank of the Modi Khola, we reach Birethanti, a large village that has many shops and teahouses. From there, the trail continues through the village that follows the north bank of the Budhhi Gandaki Khola. From there, the trail climbs steadily up the side of the valley to Hile.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• Tea House/Lodge

Day 5: Trek from Hile to Ghorepani, 7 hrs, 2,855 m/9,366 ft

Hile to Ghorepani: A steep ascends up to Ulleri and gradually ascending up to Ghorepani which takes about 7 hours. You will walk the whole day through dense forest of Rhododendron, oak trees and bamboo grooves watching beautiful rhododendron and orchid flowers. You will certainly enjoy the chirping birds and butterflies. 

Day 6: Trek from Ghorepani to Tatopani, 6 hrs, 1,189 m/ 3,899 ft

Today, the trek offers you an early morning hike to Poon Hill to enjoy the sunrise view over Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhare (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), Lamjung Himal (6931m.) and other numerous snowcapped mountain peaks. After breakfast, you trek from Ghorepani to Tatopani. After descending through the rhododendron forest, fine vistas open up we approach Chitre, with the Dhaulagiri Range straight ahead. The path then leads through terraced fields to Sikha, a Magar village clustered on a ridge. You continue to descend, gradually at first and then more steeply to cross the Ghar Khola. After a short climb, we then cross the Kali Gandaki on a large suspension bridge and from here it is only a short distance upstream to Tatopani. Tatopani takes its name from the hot springs near the river below the village. At Tatopani, you can enjoy the Natural Hot Spring Bath. 

Day 7: Trek to Ghasa, 6 hrs, 2,013 m/6,602 ft

The followed route ascends gently up the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, towards the village of Dana which is surrounded by orange groves. From autumn to winter, baskets of these oranges are offered for sale to passing travelers. Just beyond the small hamlet of Rupse, a thundering waterfall cascades down beside the trail. From here, the trail enters the steepest and narrowest section of the gorge, but the layered stone path is well-constructed and wide. When the rock cliffs end, we descend to the river before making the short climb back up to Ghasa. This is the first Thakali village we come across and the houses here are all built in the flat-roofed Tibetan style. 

Day 8: Trek to Marpha, 5-6 hrs, 2,670 m/8,757 ft

Today, the trek ascends crossing the wide valley of Kali Gandaki. Throughout the trek, you will be enjoying the mighty Rhododendron trees and many ethnic villages with a sparse population of Gurung, Thakali and few Tibetans. On the way to Marpha, we trek along the banks of Kali Gandaki through the apple orchard. Marpha is a big village enriched with a Buddhist Monastery in between the village which has its own cultural importance. 

Day 9: Trek to Kagbeni, 6 hrs, 2,810 m /9,216 ft

Today,we trek from Marpha to Jomsom to Kagbeni.  You continue to follow the wide valley of the Kali Gandaki passing through Khobang and Tukuche. Tukuche is a delightful village where narrow alley ways and houses built around enclosed courtyards attempt to provide some shelter from the winds which howl through the gorge. The wind generally picks up after about midday, but will at least be blowing at our backs as you head up to Jomsom. After passing through stone-walled orchards, a stone gate marks the entrance to Marpha. White walled houses line both sides of the narrow paved street, under which flows a cleverly made drainage system. Marpha makes a good lunch stop and the courtyards of the many lodges make ideal resting and refreshment places. The local apple brandy is especially well-known! As the trail continues towards Jomsom, the landscape becomes increasingly arid and impressive with its mixture of browns, yellows and grey, contrasting with the white snowcaps of Tilicho and Nilgiri. By afternoon, the stiff winds begin to blow, hastening our way to Jomsom, to Kagbeni.

Day 10: Trek to Muktinath, 6-7 hrs, 3,710 m/ 12,168 ft

The Trail steeply ascends for couple of hundred Meters. While gradually walking, you can enjoy beautiful deserted landscape, Caves, old Tibetan Style Villages , apple Garden , Yaks Herds, Sheep Herds and so on. We enjoy delicious lunch at Jharkot and visit Monastery which is believed to be built in 15 century. Now you head towards Muktinath following steep ascent path for half an hour. You stay overnight at Muktinath village. From here you hike to Rani Pauwa (3700m), an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Here you come across Natural flaming which really exhilarates you. At this point, you can see splendid view of Dhaulagiri (8165m), Nilgiri (7061m.) and others. Now you walk for fifteen minutes to reach Muktinath Temple , where you can enjoy a holy bath of 108 Taps.

Day 11: Trek to Jomsom, 5-6 hrs, 2,713 m/8,898 ft

We now begin to descenf down the dramatic Kali Gandaki valley, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet . After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, villages with typical Tibetan architecture, we follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom. En route, we sight tremendous views of both Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri. Jomsom is a large town sprawled along both banks of the Kali Gandaki River , and it is here we will spend the last night of our trek.

Day 12: Fly to Pokhara, 20 minutes, 900 m/2,952 ft

We take an early morning flight to Pokhara. It is a spectacular flight along the Kali Gandaki Gorge and provides wonderful views of both the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. 

Day 13: Pokhara to Kathmandu, 6 hrs, 1,300 m/4,265 ft

Early morning, we depart from Pokhara Tourist Bus Station to travel back to Kathmandu. If you are interested in continuing on to Chitwan Jungle Safari, River Rafting Adventure or any other tours you can start today.

Option: We have not included the airfare of Pokhara – Kathmandu (USD $120 Per Person). The exciting half hour flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu gives you the feeling of a mountain flight, high in the Himalaya where you can see the Langtang, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. If you chose to travel to Kathmandu by flight, we give free Airport Drop and Pick up. You need to book this flight before start the trek. 

Day 14: Departure from Nepal

We will accompany you to the International Airport in time to board your flight. Check in at the Kathmandu international airport 3 hours prior to your flight time.

What's Included

• Transfer from Airport – Hotel – Airport: Car, Van, Hi-ace or Coaster in a private vehicle.
• Authentic Nepali welcome dinner with Live Nepalese Cultural Program.
• Accommodation in Kathmandu, Three nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
• Accommodation in Pokhara, Two nights on Twin share Bed and Breakfast Basis.
• Accommodation during Trek ; local lodges 8 nights (With twin-share rooms ,beds with comfortable foam mattress and pillows)
• All standard meals(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) during the trekking
• English speaking experienced Sherpa guide (Govt. Trained/License Holder).
• One Sherpa guide-assistant if group size is more than 4 Trekkers.
• Porters: One porter for 2 Trekkers basis.
• Trek Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation.
• Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
• Annapurna Foothill’s Duffle bag for Trekking.
• Annapurna Foothill’s Tshirt.
• Energy Supplies; Snickers, Mars, Bounty etc. 
• First aid medicine kit.
• Annapurna Conservation Fee, TIMS permits & all required permits or Official Documentation.
• All ground transfers Kathamndu – Pokhara -Nayapul and Pokhara- Kathmandu.

What’s Excluded

• Your Personal Travel Insurance.
• Nepal Entry Visa Fee.
• Lunch & Dinner in cities - allow $ 10 to 14 for per meal in Tourist restaurants.
• Beverages (drinks, mineral water , boiled water and beer).
• Tips for guide, porters and driver (customary).
• Additional night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara because of early return from Trek (due to any reason) than the planned itinerary.

Similar Trips Top trending for you

Mardi Himal Trekking

Tilicho Lake Trekking

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website.

• You are here:
• Destinations
• Trekking in Nepal
• Annapurna Trekking

Kali Gandaki Trekking

• Duration 14 Days
• Max. Altitude 3,760 m
• Starts From USD 1115

Destination: Nepal

Trip Grade: Moderate (**)

Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Transportation: Private Vehicle / Aeroplane

Accommodation: Lodge

Trekking Region: Annapurna Region

Trekking Route: Kathmandu - Pokhara - Nayapul - Tikhedhunga - Ghorepani - Tatopani - Ghasa - Marpha - Kagbeni - Muktinath - Jomsom - Pokhara - Kathmandu

Trek Starts From: Nayapul

Trek Ends At: Jomsom

Best Season: March to May and September to December

Daily Walking: Approximately 5-6 hours each day

The Kali Gandaki trek has one of the widest ranges of visual experiences in all of Nepal. From the grandeur of the Annapurna mountain range to the magnificent Kali Gandaki gorge itself, the deepest canyon in the world.

The trek will start from Nayapul from where you will trek to Ghorepani and Poonhill, where you will see wonderful views of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. Trekking further north will take you to Tatopani where you will be able to bathe in the cleansing, warm water of the thermal springs. The area of Marpha, home of the delicious Marpha apple will be your next destination after which you will trek to Kali Gandaki where the sacred ammonite fossil can be found. The religious significance of this fossil is profound which it is believed to be an incarnation of the Lord Vishnu. From Kali Gandaki valley the trail leads to Jomsom valley and its grand fortress and Muktinath , which is where the sacred Jwala Mai temple is located. This is the pilgrimage site , highly revered by duo Hindus and Buddhists. This will offer you rich cultural experience and you will witness the hospitality of the villagers and townspeople throughout the trek.

You will trek back to jomsom valley from where you will take a short flight back to Pokhara with even this plane ride offering you birds eye views of the magnificent Himalayas.

Trip Highlights

• Full daysightseeing in UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu
• Scenic drive from Kathmandu to Pokhar
• Panoramic landscape of rural villages with terraced farmlands
• Following the famous rafting river Trishuli and Marshyangdi
• Fascinating Himalayan view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri from Poon Hill and MUktinath
• Visiting an enchanting city of Lakes-Pokhara
• Walking through the deepest gorge of Kali Gandaki Valley
• Explore Shaligram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in Hinduism in Kali Gandaki River
• Interacting with local people of different etnic community
• Visit the natural hot spring site at Tatopani
• Taste very famous apple of Marpha
• Visit the pilgrimage site of Hindus and Buddhists at Muktinath
• Scenic flight over the mountain ranges from Jomsom to Pokhara

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m) and Transfer to Hotel. Overnight at Hotel

Day 02: Pre-Trip meeting and Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu at Heritage Sites. O/N at Hotel

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (827 m), 200 km, 6-7 hrs. O/N at Hotel

Day 04: Drive to Nayapul (1,070 m), 1 hr, then trek to Tikhedhunga (1,540 m), 4 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 05: Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani (2,860 m), 6 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 06: Hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) early morning, then trek to Tatopani (1,190 m), 7 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 07: Trek from Tatopani to Ghasa (2,010 m), 6 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 08: Trek from Ghasa to Marpha (2,670 m), 7 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 09: Trek from Marpha to Jomsom Valley, then to Kagbeni (2,810 m), 5 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 10: Trek from Kagbeni to Muktinath (3,760 m), 5 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 11: Explore around Muktinath, then trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2,720 m), 6 hrs. O/N at Guest House

Day 12: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (827 m), 25 min. O/N at Hotel

Day 13: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,350 m), 200 km, 6-7 hrs. O/N at Hotel

Day 14: Departure to International Airport

Cost Include

• Airport Picks up and Drops off by private tourist vehicle
• Three nights’ twin sharing basis accommodation at 3 star category hotels in Kathmandu and two nights’ in Pokhara with Breakfast
• Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private tourist vehicle
• A government licensed holdet city Tour Guide
• Full board meal (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner) during the trek
• Lodges, Guest Houses accommodation during the trek
• Professional license holder English speaking Trekking Guide
• The required number of local staff and porters (2 Trekkers = 1 Porter)
• Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for all staff
• Annapurna Conservation Area permits and TIMS card for trekking
• Down Jacket, Duffle bag and sleeping bag by Himkala Adventure if required
• Drive from Kathmandu - Pokhara - Kathmandu by tourist coach
• Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul by vehicle
• Airfare  from Jomson to Pokhara with airport tax
• Farewell Dinner with Nepalese Cultural Show
• Government taxes, VAT and service charge  

Cost Exclude

• Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
• Entrance fee in all monuments during tour
• Emergency Rescue and Evacuation cost
• Your travel insurance.
• Nepal entry visa fee 
• Personal expenses like: hot and cold drinks, phone bill, laundry, battery recharge, hot shower etc
• Personal trekking Equipment
• Tips for trekking, tour staff and driver (Tipping is expected)
• Any others expenses which are not mentioned on ‘Cost Includes' section  

Photos of Kali Gandaki Trekking

Himkala Adventure would like to quench the thirst of all necessary questions answers about Kali Gandaki Trekking for all curious travelers/trekkers in the world. As you are entirely from different geographical location, you could better to know everything about the treks from the beginning i.e. airport pick up till your departure like airport picks up, drops off, accommodation in city, in the trek, guide and porters, safety for the trekking, food and accommodation and some other things that you might face on the way. Hope our endeavor listing these questions answers will help you self informed.

This is simply the outlines of the services we offer but it may differ as per your requirement, number of trekkers. What we go through our conversation, we will manage the means of transportation, hotels in the city, accommodation in the trekking, numbers of porters etc. This is general idea about Kali Gandaki Trekking before your trip and you become clearer about the trek. Please feel free to contact us to get more information about the trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal.

1) How is Kali Gandaki Trekking in Nepal?

Kali Gandaki Trekking is an alternativer trekking trail  of Annapurna Region in the western part of Nepal.The newly explored trek reaches up to 3,760 m from the sea level. It is a moderate trek and can be done by anyone. Kali Gandaki Trekking goes through the worlds deepest gorge made by Kali Gandaki River cutting deep through the Himalaya between the massive peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. As we trek up the Kali Gandaki valley we pass through the traditional and prosperous villages of Tukuche, Ghasa, Marpha and Jomsom.

2) What physical fitness do I need to book this trip?

Every trekking in the Himalayas of Nepal require the certain level of physical and mental fitness.So, we advise you to be in good physical shape and able to feel comfortable while hiking up and down 7 to 12 miles per day on a trail carrying a day pack of about 10 pounds. Three things could make you confident enough for any trek you would like to do: aerobic, strength and mental.

Aerobic conditioning is important primarily because you will be trekking in thinner air, up to 40% less than at sea level. With good aerobic conditioning, you will be able to better metabolize whatever oxygen is available to you. You should plan on doing at least one hour of aerobic 3 /4 times per week for 1 month or more before your arrival in Nepal. Walking, jogging, cycling, hiking on valley floor to ridge line ascents with day back are some of the excellent forms of exercise, so long as you are strengthening leg muscles and building stamina. Speed is not the essence; stamina, confidence and continuity are.

3) How do I find Himkala Adventure for my pick up at the airport?

Our representative from Himkala Adventure will display a small board of company or your name on the sheet of paper outside the airport terminal. You will be driven to the hotel by our tourist vehicle.

4) What sort of accommodation do I get in Kathmandu and Pokhara ?

Normally we provide standard rooms with twin sharing accommodations at three star or similar category hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara including breakfast. Accommodation in these cities can be upgraded as per your request. But some of our packages are sold without accommodation in the city.

5) How are tea house facilities during Kali Gandaki Trekking?

Tea House is the combination of guest house, restaurant, and social hang out. Tea houses in Kali Gandaki Trekking area are highly professional though they are simple but with neat and clean lodging offering fine views and plain but fresh and hygienic food with friendly atmosphere Most of the Tea Houses have running water facility. Many of them have hot water available for bathing. But we discourage our groups from using water heated by wood as lack of firewood in most villages is a big environmental concern in Nepal.

6) What sort of accommodation do I get in trekking?

Guesthouses/Tea Houses/Lodges provide twin sharing single and double rooms and occasionally a dormitory which is basically clean with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. Our company provides the sleeping bag if needed but we always recommend having your own sleeping equipments. You have to share the room with your group member or sometimes with unknown traveler. The toilet is always outside the room with basic facilities.

7) What sort of foods, water and drinks can I expect in trekking?

The foods in the Himalayas are very simple. There are mostly the family members themselves to cook and serve the meal. They are simply trained but experienced because they have been offering such services for many years in this busy route. The food is hygienic, fresh and delicious. We recommend you to drink mineral water or the boiled or using water purification pills or drops.

Most of the foods are cooked in the kitchen of tea houses. They serve you with different varieties of delicious Nepali and continental dishes. The most popular Nepali food is daal bhat (rice and lentils) with some mixed vegetable curry. Garlic soup is popular as it helps you with acclimatization. You could better be vegetarian in the mountains. All hotels in cities and guesthouses in trekking serve the vegetarian food. You can find all common types of drinks like hot chocolates, coffee, tea, hot lemon with honey, ginger tea, soft drinks etc. you will have your breakfast and dinner at the lodges where you will be staying and lunch somewhere on the way to your next destination.

8) What mode of transportation do I use?

We will provide the private transportation for Airport/Hotel/Airport pick up and drop and sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley. We use transportation as based on our cost inclusion section. The transportation varies depending on your requirements at the time of booking the trip.

9) What is the best season for this trekking?

The best season for Kali Gandaki Trekking is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December). These are the perfect time of the year for the breathtaking views of Himalayas with clear and sunny days. But the weather in the mountains is unpredictable.

10) What is the weather and temperature like during the trekking?

The climate in Nepal varies from place to place which can be categorized in different four main seasons. The main seasons in Nepal are spring (March to May), summer (June to August), autumn (September to November) & winter (December to February). The best season to travel in Nepal is autumn (September, October & November) & spring (March, April & May). Weather in the mountains is unpredictable. But the day temperature in Kali Gandaki Trekking is comfortable.

11) Who will be guiding me during this trip?

We provide the professional government license holder English speaking trekking guides for our entire trekking trip. We can also provide French, Spanish, Japanese, German or Italian speaking guides as per your preference with extra payment but not guaranteed.  All guides will be Nepali people who are carefully selected on the basis of their appropriate experience, leadership skills and personality. They are all trained from Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management, certified and approved by the Tourism Department of Nepal government.  We provide a different city tour guide to guide you in UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu. They are the professional license holder guide specialized in culture, history, geography, iconography, archeology and religion with good command over English. Tour guides are specialized in city tour and trekking guides are more in the hiking and trekking in the Himalayas.

12) What sort of experience do your guides have?

Our entire city tour guides have bachelors to Master Degree academic education along with many months tour guiding training from Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management, Rabi Bhawan, Kathmandu, Nepal. They are fluent in spoken languages and informative about the sites in many aspects. They are quite experienced and dedicated to their job and responsibilities.

Our entire trekking guides have minimum Intermediate to Master Degree academic education with trekking guide training from Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management, Rabi Bhawan, Kathmandu, Nepal. Many of them are from villages. As they are local, they know more about the routes, necessary precaution to be taken and so on. They have spent many years exploring many parts of the country. They are trained in first aid and able to handle any situation easily. They speak good English and make you know about the places you visit.

13) May I charge my electronic gadgets during Kali Gandaki Trekking?

Most of the places in your tea houses have charging facilities. You can charge your devices by paying some extra money. It’s good if you bring TWO or THREE pin travel adapter and put your gadgets at warm place at night.

14) How much additional money is required for this trip?

It’s a very personal question as expenses depend on habit. Normally, in Kathmandu you can allocate about USD 10 to 15 per person per lunch or dinner. USD 10 to USD 15 per person per day will be sufficient to buy bottles of water, chocolates, pay for a hot shower during the trekking. Other personal expenses will be your own calculation.

15) What is the social and environmental responsibility of Himkala Adventure for this trip?

The situation of environment in Nepal is in considerable stage due to so many factors caused by global warming, human activities, and adverse effects of natural incidents. Nepal is in between two giant countries like China and Nepal. The ozone layer is depleting and the atmosphere is getting heated. So, its direct effect is to the Himalayas that the snow is melting day by day and the sea level is rising. It is due to population growth, people are clearing the forest and the soil is being eroded. As a part of society, and our trekking related activities are directly concerned with the social and environmental things. We are very conscious not litter in the open spaces, to manage garbage properly and make local people aware in this campaign. We are working together with other companies and taking these issues seriously.

16) What is the minimum number requirement for this trip?

We operate individual trip to the group joining trips for Kali Gandaki Trekking. If you want to do any private trip we are ready to organize for solo traveler as well with some additional charges.

17) Are there communication or internet services during Kali Gandaki Trekking?

All guesthouses/lodges in Mardi Himal Trekking trails have telephones and internet services. They provide the WIFI service with some extra charge which helps to get updated with social Medias, friends or family. All our guides carry the local mobile phone. You can use his mobile phone to make any local or international call from trekking trails by paying him directly. You can even pass him number to be connected with your family or friends. We highly recommend taking local SIM card for call and internet services during trekking. Local SIM cards are easily available in many stores and at airport as well. You need to provide two copies of your photographs and your passport copy to get local SIM CARDS of NCELL & NTC (only these two companies provide telephone services in Nepal

18) May I get chances for shower during Kali Gandaki Trekking?

Most of the guesthouse provides hot shower with some extra cost. In few places, bucket water will be provided for the shower.

19) May I add extra days in trekking?

We are ready to operate your holidays as per your interest and requirements. You can spend extra days on your loving or favorable places or even can make it shorter. We will always do our best to manage your hotel bookings, flight booking and everything.

20) What happens in case of emergency?

Himkala Adventure has prepared for any emergency situation and knows how to handle it. Our guides are trained in first aid and can deal with most of the basic ailments that occur during the trek. Every client should have his own insurance before coming to Nepal for the case of emergency.

21) Do I need to have insurance for this trip?

We request you to have a travel-insurance policy to cover theft, loss, medical problem & emergency helicopter evacuation from high altitude places before coming Nepal. Choose a policy to cover your emergency high altitude helicopter evacuation with all medical insurances for trekking in high altitude in the Himalayas of Nepal.  Your travel insurance is always needed before going in any high altitude trekking.  Please check your travel insurance policy which doesn’t exclude mountaineering or alpinism.  Although you will not be engaging in these activities in your trekking, you might have problem convincing the insurance company of this fact.  Rescue insurance need to cover an emergency helicopter evacuation or a charted flight from remote mountain trails of Nepal as well as international medical evacuation. A helicopter evacuation might cost US$ 2500 to US$10000 depending on the places.  So that travel insurance to cover all above is must to travel in the high Himalayas of Nepal.

22) What is the baggage allowance from/to Kathmandu – Pokhara flight?

One can fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara. It is scenic flight over the mountains which takes 25 minutes.Normally, it is 20 kg free allowed per head flying from/to Kathmandu – Pokhara flight. If we have bought tickets in a group then it calculates member and multiply 20 X ..., rest we need to pay approximately USD 1 per Kg. They allow up to 7 kg for the hand carry.

23) What type of shoes should I wear during Kali Gandaki Trekking?

You could better have carefully chosen hiking boots which should be kind of strong, well-made but light boots for Kali Gandaki Trekking. Shoes and boots are best to buy before arriving in Nepal. We advise you to wear your new shoes for sometime before trek so that you could feel well habituated on the newer trail for your feet.

24) Can I use credit cards in the Kali Gandaki Trekking route?

Of course not, you can use only in the cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara but not in Kali Gandaki Trekking route. When you are out of city, all you need is cash, better to have small notes. Please change the currency in local Nepali rupees before you go to the mountains.

25) Do I need to tip my guide and porter? How much would that be?

Tipping is not mandatory, neither it is right to ask by anyone but it is a way of showing gratitude after taking service. The level of tip also shows how satisfy you are from the team that you had been during your tour/trek.However, we recommend you to spend minimum 10% of your total trip cost for tipping entire local staffs, the ratio of tipping guide and porter will be given to you at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before starting the trek.

The cost of trip varies according to the number of travelers in the group, the category of the Hotel, mode of the transportation and any kind of changes (if there is). So, if you would let us know all of these above mentioned things, then we could quote you the exact price.

Walking Trails:

There are stone steps up and down in most of the trekking routes in Annapurna Region. So, you might find a pair of trekking poles very useful.

The main trekking season in Nepal is from October to December and March to May. The day temperature for walking in Kali Gandaki Trekking is comfortable. The sky is clear although there is snow and rainfall occasionally. It is about 10 degree centigrade at the height of 3,600 m and increasingly lower, the higher we go. 

Nepal Strikes:

There is much more progress in the political scenario in Nepal and we assure you that travelling in Nepal is safe. But there may be Bandha (wide transport strikes) at a very short notice. The shuttle bus is in operation by Nepal Tourism Board and the Nepal Tourist Police in conjunction with the Himalayan Rescue Association from domestic and international terminal to the various hotels in Kathmandu. The service costs 300 rupees per person.

Itinerary Disclaimer:

Himkala has thoughtfully designed all the itineraries but our itineraries are updated for the betterment on the basis of our past travelers’ comments and our own research. In case you find changes in the itinerary you printed and the upgraded one does not affect your trip. Please note that some changes may occur in our itineraries due to bad weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes.

Physical Rating:

Your trip will be meaningful if you could find yourself fit and fine. You will be walking up to 3,760 m from the sea level. As the geographical region varies, there is a temperature variation as well. So, we advise you to undertake regular physical exercise, jogging, hiking, riding, ascending and descending the long stairs etc.Precautions and acclimatization are undertaken but be aware of the effects altitudes can have.

Group Size:

Himkala Adventure organizes solo to group travelers. Our group trips are designed for sharing accommodation and there is no single supplement. Single travelers share with the same gender from twin to multi-share in an accommodation. You are requested to have mutual understanding in between the fellow travelers who have joined from the different parts of the world. Please remember that you have great responsibilities in the group. If you are requested to be at a particular place at a certain time, make sure that you have been there at a time. It is much more pleasing sharing experiences and traveling together.

Accommodation and Meals:

Accommodation and Foods in the Himalayan region of Nepal cannot be compared with any developed countries in the world. We know that you might not have experienced such things before but you should take it easy. Accommodations at local lodges are simple but clean and comfortable. The food is plain. Toilets and washing facilities are shared and rudimentary. In high altitude regions, there are very few tea houses and one has to be happy to share in simple dormitories without electricity, without running water. Hot shower means a  bucket of hot water upon our request.

Money Matters:

Please note that most establishments in Asia will not accept foreign currency notes that are old, torn or faded and they can be very difficult to exchange or extra fees added when exchanging at banks. Please ensure that you have new, clean notes.

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). ATMs can be found only in major cities of Nepal like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Bhaktapur etc. The government of Nepal has banned the import, export and use of 500 and 1000 Indian rupee notes in Nepal. You make sure that you won’t carry these notes upon arrival in Nepal, otherwise they are confiscated and you may be fined.

Please make sure that the foreign currency notes that you have are new and clean notes because old, torn or faded foreign currency notes in Nepal are very difficult to exchange or extra fees added when exchanging at banks.

While travelers cheques have security advantages exchanging them can be a lengthy process, commissions can be high (up to 10%) and they can be difficult to change in rural areas, on weekends and public holidays. If you choose to bring travelers’ cheques, make sure they are a major brand and major currency.

Tipping is not mandatory. It is not anyone’s right asking for tips but if you are happy with the service, you could tip the staffs. It is entirely a personal preference. Tipping could be significant to them who took take great care of you in your traveling period. Himkala recommends that you could tip any intended recipient by any member of the group than collected and passed on by the group leader.

Note: Please do not tip with coins or dirty and ripped notes. This is culturally taken as an insult.

Local Dress in Nepal:

Nudity is a sensitive issue in Nepal. Women should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops in public places where this might be seen as inappropriate. Remove shoes before entering certain holy places. Non-Hindus are not permitted in some temples.

Your feedback will be the great guidance to meet our target and to bring improvement in our service. What and how have you experienced with Himkala Adventure and our staff? Please write, we will read it carefully. One cannot see his/her shortcomings that are lying with them. Someone should point it out. We are always eager to hear from you.

• Essential Do’s and Don’ts
• Foot Ware/Foot Care
• Health and Fitness
• Himkala Crews
• Hypothermia
• Safety and Security
• Travel Insurance and Evacuation
• Washing and Shower
• Water/Food and Nutrition
• Trip Grading
• Accommodation/Shelter
• Altitude Sickness
• Communications and Updates
• Conservation
• Cross Cultural Issues
• Equipment List

Quick Inquiry

You may also like.

Jomsom Muktinath Trekking

Jomsom Muktinath Trekking is an acknowledged classic, an ideal sampler…...

Royal Trekking

Royal Trekking is one of the famous and easygoing trekking…...

Tilicho Lake Trekking

Tilicho Lake is the lake situated 4,919 m high, high…...

Ghandruk Village Trekking

Ghandruk Village lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area. Ghandruk Village…...

Mini Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Trekking is considered one of the 10 most popular…...

Nar Phu Valley Trekking

Nar Phu Valley Trekking is also the newly opened trail…...

Khayer Tal Trekking

Tal means Lake in Nepali. Khayer Tal is the beautiful…...

Nagi Narchyang Trekking

Annapurna Region is considered one of the busiest trekking region…...

Siklesh Trekking

Siklesh Trekking is an easy and overwhelmingly panoramic trekking in…...

Upper Mustang Trekking

Upper Mustang Trekking is known as the hidden treasure, the…...

Annapurna Trek of Abundance

Annapurna Trekking is the most scenic trekking trails not only…...

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking is known as Annapurna Sanctuary Trekking.…...

Ghorepani Hot Spring Trek

Ghorepani Poon hill trek is one of the most popular…...

Annapurna Circuit Trekking

 The Annapurna circuit trekking is a challenging but rewarding three…...

Khopra Ridge Trekking

Khopra Ridge Trekking offers stunning Mountain View of Mt. Dhaulagiri,…...

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking

Ghorepani Poonhill trekking is also known as the Annapurna Sunrise…...

Poonhill Trek in Nepal

Ghorepani Poon hill trek lies in the western part of…...

Annapurna Round Trekking

Annapurna Round Trek as a holiday destination The Annapurna Round…...

Mardi Himal Trekking

Mardi Himal Trekking is newly explored route, the least trodden…...

Mardi Trek in Nepal

Mardi Trek as a holiday destination The 7-day Mardi Himal…...

Poonhill Ghandruk Trekking

Poonhill Trekking as a holiday destination Also known as the…...

ABC Trekking in Nepal

ABC Trekking as a holiday destination A truly cherished, highly-favored,…...

Mustang Trekking

Mustang Trekking as a holiday destination The most popular of…...

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek as a holiday destination The Upper Dolpo…...

AFFILIATIONS

A journey to Kali Gandaki Gorge- the deepest canyon on the Earth

This is the Himalayas- the highest mountain range in the world. Ten of the fourteen highest peaks (above 8000 m) are located here. And there is a river that comes from the Himalayan interior, called Kali Gandaki. It flows between two of the 8000-ers- Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, before descending to the valley or Ganges. But before that, between these two giants, it cuts the deepest canyon on the Earth- Kali Gandaki Gorge. Let’s go and explore it, getting the best impression of it!

Table of Contents

Basic facts about Kali Gandaki Gorge

Everything starts from a majestic snowcapped mountain, called Manshail (6235 m). A massive glacier called Nhubine Himal descends from its peak down to around 5750 m. From this point, a small stream proceeds downwards, gathering the waters of other neighboring streams. It flows through a deep mountain valley that gets deeper and deeper. But it is not the main canyon yet.

After the town of Chele, the stream, now called Kali Gandaki River cuts the mighty Himalaya Range through its highest parts. Here, the river already descends below 3000 m altitude while the Himalayas rises above 8000 m, reaching the highest elevation at Mt Dhaulagiri (8167 m) and Annapurna (8091 m). And at a certain point where the river bed is at 2520 m, between Dhaulagiri and Annapurna, the difference reaches 5571 m- more than 5 km and 500 m of depth!

Further downwards, Kali Gandaki winds between the lower ridges of the Himalayas, and through the Siwalik Range to Gaindakot. From there, it goes out of the mountains. There is only an area of low hills ahead on which the border between Nepal and India passes, and beyond them is only a vast plain. Finally, the Kali Gandaki merges with the Ganges River which flows in the Indian Ocean. But let’s back to the Himalayas.

Natural facts

The huge elevation difference between the river bed and the two 8000-ers is the reason why Kali Gandaki Gorge is among the largest canyons in the world – it is not the longest, nor the widest, but it is the deepest of all (with some conditions). And it is possible only in the highest mountain range on our planet- the Himalayas.

The gorge is not too long, and in fact, it doesn’t have a clear “beginning and end”. If we count the river valley from its source to the exit of the Himalayas at Gaindakot, the length is more than 300 km, but not everything of it is a “canyon”. The real, deep canyon is not more than 50 km long.

In fact, the peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna aren’t rising directly over the river bed and can’t be seen from there- these peaks are a bit hidden behind lower “sub-peaks”. Thus, you can’t really feel the 5571 elevation difference, it is only statistical. But the gorge still looks spectacular.

With its depth, the slopes of the gorge enter several elevation zones- from subtropical broad-leaved forests and bush, through high alpine pastures, to the snowcapped and glaciated tops of the surrounding mountains. And this is not just a set of natural landscapes, but there is also a unique local culture.

History and local culture

Kali Gandaki River flows through an area with a long history. Today, its gorge is entirely within the borders of Nepal, but in the past, it was a part of various kingdoms and empires. The area has also been noticed by the religious people, Buddhists, and Hinduists who built temples, stupas, and other religious constructions, even man-made caves like the 10 000 Mustang Caves.

The gorge is also in the transitional zone between the Tibetan and Indian cultural worlds and is home to the Thakali and Gurung people. Its upper part is located within Mustang District. It has been an isolated autonomous kingdom, only recently opened for tourists. And even today, it is still somehow off the beaten due to its remoteness. Thus, Kali Gandaki Gorge is not only incredibly beautiful but also full of mysteries.

Include a travel insurance as a part of your trip preparation by pressing the button below:

How to explore Kali Gandaki Gorge

There is a dirt road that follows the river bed of Kali Gandaki and connects Mustang with the rest of Nepal. This road has been used since ancient times as a trade route between Tibet and India. And today the local people travel on it- on foot, by motorcycles, by 4×4 vehicles, or even by horse. In modern days, this road is also used by travelers to Mustang. But the most popular way to use this road is as a trekking route.

This trekking route is a part of two longer trekking routes that circle around the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna massifs. They are called Annapurna Circuit and Dhaulagiri Circuit, and they share a common section- the road on the river bed of Kali Gandaki River, between the two massifs. This is the section from Kusma (Kushma)- 700 m and Kagbeni- 2850 m. Its total length is 106 km.

So, if you want to explore Kali Gandaki Gorge- you can just hike on this common section (on foot or by vehicle), or make a full circle around one of the massifs (only on foot). Now, let’s focus on this section in more detail.

The route from Kusma (Kushma) to Kagbeni, attractive points

This route follows the main road that connects Mustang with the rest of Nepal. Its lowest section (from Kusma to Baglung) is paved, but further, it becomes a dirt road. Usually, the trekking on the gorge, as well as the whole Annapurna Circuit start from Nayapul, a town that is not located on the gorge, and reaches Kali Gandaki at Pokharebagar. But the “full version” of the Kali Gandaki trek starts from Kusma (Kushma).

The whole route is a spectacular attraction. Yes, there are some points of interest on the way, but they are not too much “more special” than the whole road between them. They are mostly some waterfalls, lakes, observation points, and towns:

• Kusma (Kushma) . A nice town, spectacularly established at the merging point of Kali Gandaki and Modi Rivers.
• Baglung . Another lovely town, the western end of the Pokhara-Baglung highway. Here is the beautiful Golden Bridge on the Kali Gandaki.
• Lovely Hill . This is a spectacular panoramic place on a small but steep hill over the merging point Kali Gandaki and Myagdi Khola rivers, in the town of Beni . This is also the starting (or ending) point of the Dhaulagiri Circuit.
• Mahaveer Waterfall . A refreshing waterfall at the Annapurna side of the road. Not too big, but still creates a beautiful landscape.
• Tatopani . A small hot springs resort. At this point, Annapurna Circuit enters the Kali Gandaki Gorge.
• Narchyang Waterfall . A beautiful waterfall that falls as several streams on a mossy bed, located aside from the main road, on the Annapurna slopes. The place is full of Hindu temples.
• Rupse Waterfall . This is a small waterfall jumping as several cascades on a stony slope at the Dhaulagiri side of the gorge.
• Titi Lake . This is an amazingly beautiful pond, located at the Annapurna slope, about 3 km aside from the main road. Reachable by a short hike.
• Sekong and Butharchho lakes . Two small ponds in a beautiful alpine forest, located at the Dhaulagiri slope of the gorge, about 1 km aside from the road.
• Jomsom . An important town located already in Mustang. It has a small domestic airport. Nearby attractions are Dhumba Taal Pond, Gharapjhong Fort, a remnant from the Thakali Kingdom, and the Leopard Cave.
• Kagbeni . This is the last point of the “official” Kali Gandaki Gorge (of course, the gorge still proceeds further upward, but that’s another section and route). The area around offers spectacular views. Here Dhaulagiri and Annapurna Circuits separate and proceed on their routes at the northern sides of the two 8000-ers.

Kali Gandaki Tours and Treks

You can walk, ride a motorcycle, or travel by another vehicle from Kusma to Kagbeni, then you can back by plane from Jomsom, proceed further on one of the two circuits, or penetrate Mustang. Or, you can hike the classical Kali Gandaki trekking route, a part of Annapurna Circuit.

Until April 1st, 2023, you could do everything independently, but there is a new rule now- you have to hire a local guide. Read more about it in the Useful Tips section. Or, you can join a Kali Gandaki trekking tour. These treks are normally between 14 and 18 days long, including the transfer from and to Kathmandu.

The classical Kali Gandaki trekking route starts from Nayapul, passes through the spectacular Poon Hill, and after two days reach the bottom of the gorge at Tatopani. From there, it proceeds day by day to Kagbeni. And before back to Jomsom, you usually visit Muktinath- a religious area with Buddhist and Hinduist temples east of Kagbeni.

Here are some organized treks on this route:

• Kali Gandaki Trekking by Himkala Adventure . They offer a 14 days trek with a price starting from $1115.
• The Kali Gandaki Valley Trek by Himalaya Hikes . Their trek is longer, 18 days, on the same route, just including a bit more details than the 14-day treks.
• Annapurna Kali Gandaki Valley Trekking by Himalaya Journey . They offer a 17-day trek, almost similar to the other treks, just spending the nights in different locations.
• Kali Gandaki Trekking by Annapurna Foothills . This is a 14-day trek, similar to the one offered by Himkala Adventure. The price starts from $1100.

Many more companies offer treks on this route, but those four are the most popular.

Another option is to travel on the Circuits (Dhaulagiri or Annapurna). But they are different than the Kali Gandaki treks- what they usually offer is traveling by vehicle on the Kali Gandaki road, and hiking only on the rest of the routes (otherwise, it would be too long).

Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit is more popular and easier. Kali Gandaki route is only its western section that the organized tours usually pass by vehicle. But the more attractive and difficult part is the rest of the route. The treks usually start from Nadi (Nagdi), at the southeastern side of Annapurna, and from there gradually ascend to the highest point Thorang La Pass (5416 m). In other words, the direction is counter-clockwise, which is better for altitude acclimatization.

Again, the whole route is spectacular, with constantly changing landscapes. Nevertheless, some points of interest can be mentioned, like Chamjie Waterfall, Deepwater Fall, Mring Taal Lake, the town of Manang with its breathtaking viewpoints, and finally Thorang La Pass.

From there, the route descends dramatically to the valley of the Marshyangdi River and passes through the religious complex Muktinath, until finally reaches Kagbeni and Jomsom. Here the trek ends and you proceed by vehicle downstream along the Kali Gandaki, at Tatopani leave the gorge and back to Pokhara (and Kathmandu). That’s what most of Annapurna Circuit’s organized treks look like. And they usually complete it in 13 to 15 days. Let’s see some of them:

• Annapurna Circuit Trek . This is a 15-day trek. Kathmandu is the starting and the ending point. The trekking part is from Nadi (Nagdi) to Jomsom, and the rest is by vehicle.
• 15-Day Annapurna Circuit Trek with Tilicho Lake . This trek follows the same route as the first one, but adds a detour to the fantastic Tilicho Lake, shortening the rest of the route a bit.
• Annapurna Circuit Trek (Budget Version) . This trek is exactly like the first one, but the accommodation on the way is more basic and cheaper. It is 15 days long.
• Annapurna Circuit Trek (Budget Shorter Version) . This is the same as the Budget Version but is one day shorter (only 14 days). What they cut is the vehicle journey on the Kali Gandaki Gorge. Instead, you fly directly from Jomsom to Pokhara.
• Annapurna Circuit Trek (Splurge Shorter Version) . This is a 13-day trek (actually, it is 14 days, but just it doesn’t count the first day of arrival in Kathmandu). It is the same as the Budget Shorter Version, but with better places to stay.
• Around Annapurna Trek . This is an 18-day trek. It follows the same route as the other treks above. But this time, there are some trekking sections after Tatopani (on the Kali Gandaki Gorge), which makes it a bit longer.
• Annapurna Circuit Trek (18-day full trekking) . This is the complete trekking version of Annapurna Circuit. The trekking is not only at the eastern and the northern sides of Annapurna but also on the Kali Gandaki Gorge. It is a bit long, so you will skip Kagbeni and Jomsom, and from Muktinath will descend directly to Marpha.

See more Annapurna Circuit treks below:

Dhaulagiri Circuit

This route is shorter than Annapurna Circuit but is much more difficult. It starts from Beni (in the Kali Gandaki Gorge) and follows the valley of the Myagdi Khola River. Here it ascends gradually from 900 (Beni) to 5370 m (French Pass), then crosses another pass (Dhampus, or Thapa Banjyan Pass- 5290 m) at the north side of Dhaulagiri, and descends again to the Kali Gandaki River at Marpha (2650 m). Finally, it closes the circuit at Beni, but usually, the tours leave the valley at Tatopani and end in Nayapul.

Due to its difficulty, it is longer and there are much fewer organized treks on it. Here is the best one:

• Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek . It is 20 days long. The trekking part is from Beni to Nayapul, thus you almost close the whole circle around Dhaulagiri on foot. Only the rest is by vehicle (from and to Kathmandu). It is also much more expensive than Annapurna Circuit but offers more adventures and fantastic landscapes.

Beyond Kagbeni- into Upper Mustang

Now, let’s back to Kali Gandaki, to the final point of the “classical section” of the Kali Gandaki Gorge- Kagbeni. Here you are already in Mustang, and the river valley proceeds further upstream to its source. Although here the gorge is not as deep as below Kagbeni, and the valley is in general wider, looking more like a “normal valley” than a canyon, it is not less beautiful. Just it offers different kinds of beauty, with more Tibetan taste. In fact, here you are beyond the highest part of the Himalayas.

And the road proceeds for a while at the bottom of the Kali Gandaki, however, from Chele, it leaves the bottom and follows the western slopes of the valley until it reaches Lo Manthang (4230 m), the main settlement in Upper Mustang. From Lo Manthang, you can go to some nearby places of interest like Chode Gompa, Jampa Lhakhang, and Chosser Caves. To proceed further to the glacier source of Kali Gandaki, you need a special permit, because you approach the border with China, so, in general, the Kali Gandaki routes end here.

Let’s see two organized treks on this route:

• Upper Mustang Trek (Short Version) . It is 15 days long and follows the main road from Kagbeni to Lo Manthang. From there, you back on foot partially on the same road.
• Upper Mustang Trek (Long Version) . It is 18 days long, and follows the same road go and back, but includes visiting the Chosser Caves and Muktinath.

This is what the exploration of the Kali Gandaki Gorge looks like. As you can see, to taste it best, you should also look at one of the circuits around Dhaulagiri or Annapurna, or the Upper Mustang. Of course, it depends on many things (budget, time, physical ability, and more), but let’s see some useful tips you should consider.

Useful tips

First, before we proceed further, we have to announce something that probably would not please independent travelers: Nepal banned independent hiking from April 1st, 2023! It doesn’t mean that you must only join organized treks- you still can hike on your own (with your own itinerary), but not alone. You have to be accompanied by a local guide.

For more information, read this article .

So now, these tips are more proper for those who prefer to explore Kali Gandaki Gorge on their own, with a local guide. They are about transportation, accommodation, and seasons to visit. If you join a trek, the tour guides will care about these things, you don’t need to worry about it. But if you want to be a bit more “independent” (only with your own guide), read below.

Transportation

If you want to reach Kusma (Kushma) the lowest point of the “classical gorge” from Kathmandu, you can travel by bus. There are a lot of buses from Kathmandu to Kushma during the day which travels from 8 to 14 hours, depending on their route, stops on the way, and road conditions.

Check for transport from Kathmandu to Kushma on 12Go!

It is the same if want to start your route from Nayapul (the classical starting point for Kali Gandaki and Annapurna Circuit treks). Again, there are a lot of buses from Kathmandu to Nayapul during the day. The trip is a bit shorter, but the length again depends on the same conditions.

Check for transport from Kathmandu to Nayapul on 12Go!

It is also the same when you back to Kathmandu- a lot of buses from Kusma (Kushma) or Nayapul.

If you want to trek on Dhaulagiri Circuit, you can get the bus from Kathmandu to Jomsom (15:00 and 17:00). It can drop you in Beni, again around midnight, so, on the next day you can start your trek from there.

Check for transport from Kathmandu to Jomsom on 12Go!

Flight to and from Jomsom

There are no direct flights between Kathmandu and Jomsom, only private jet charters. There are regular flights, but they are not direct. If you want to travel by plane, you have to book two flights: Kathmandu-Pokhara , then Pokhara-Jomsom , and vice versa.

Traveling by rental car

This is a convenient way to explore Kali Gandaki Gorge quickly. You can rent a car from Kathmandu, travel to Kusma (Kushma), and then proceed to Kagbeni. However, have in mind the following:

• You must have IDL (International Driving Permit) for Nepal or a Nepalese Driving License (read this article for more information). You can apply for it online from here .
• Remember that the road on the Kali Gandaki Gorge is dirt. So, you need a proper vehicle (4×4, etc.).

Otherwise, there are rental car companies that provide vehicles with a driver. In this way, you can travel by vehicle more safely and easily.

Find the best rental cars in Nepal!

Accommodation

There are a lot of places to stay on the road. Especially on Kali Gandaki Gorge, there are towns and villages all the way, and almost each of them provides some form of accommodation- from splurge to budget hotels, and from homestays to lodges with basic conditions. You can book a few of them in advance from Booking or Agoda .

Check for accommodation in Kali Gandaki Gorge on Booking!

Check for accommodation in Kali Gandaki Gorge on Agoda!

However, for most of the properties, you can just use them when you arrive, if there is a free bed. Fortunately, there are a lot, so it should not be a problem. Some of them can be seen on Google Maps and you can see their phone numbers there. Usually, they can speak English, so you can try to arrange your stay in advance by phone.

You can also go camping. There are several campsites in the Kali Gandaki Gorge, as well as the established base camps on the Circuit routes. Finally, you can do wild camping (seems it is still allowed, despite the new regulations for independent trekkers). But have in mind some dangers in the wild. Also, check first whether the place you are going to install your tent doesn’t belong to a local farmer.

The best time to explore the Kali Gandaki Gorge is in October and November. The weather is sunny, with a clear sky, and moderate temperatures. So, this is the high season in Nepal.

The second high season is April-May. During this period, the weather is nice again, but occasional rain can occur, more than in October-November.

Then, the time from May to September is the rainy season. This is the time of the summer monsoon and the whole country experiences heavy rainfall (and heavy snowfall in the high mountain), especially in July and August. So, this is not a good time to explore Kali Gandaki- the roads are in bad condition, landslides occur, etc. In general, this is the lowest season and many activities are not available.

Finally, the cold season (winter) is from the end of November to the end of March. It is a good season but only for the Kali Gandaki Gorge which is at a lower elevation. The Circuit treks that ascend to more than 5000 m altitude are too dangerous (temperatures can drop to -20, even -30°C around Thorang La Pass).

This is Kali Gandaki Gorge. It is not just a gorge, but a whole phenomenon that combines a gorge with the highest mountains on the Earth, with fantastic landscapes everywhere and unique culture. No matter whether you “collect” visits to the largest canyons on the Earth, or just enjoy the majestic scenery of the Himalayas, Kali Gandaki Gorge and the two giants Dhaulagiri and Annapurna remain a pearl on your bucket list for exploring the geographical wonders on our planet.

Take a look at this video for more impressions from Kali Gandaki Gorge

Check some travel books about Nepal:

Disclaimer: Journey Beyond the Horizon is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites at no additional cost to you.

Like it? Pin it here⇓! Follow us on  Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Instagram !

Hi, we are Krasen and Ying Ying. Krasen is from Bulgaria, and Ying Ying is from China. We are passionate about geography and history, and we believe that the best way to experience it is by exploring the Earth in reality, not in a school, and not virtually.

So, we created this blog Journey Beyond the Horizon, where we share geographical knowledge, travel guides and tips how to experience it when you explore our planet, and a lot of inspiration.

And we wish you a happy journey, not just virtually, but most of all- in reality.

You may also like

Mexico is a mountainous country with diverse terrain. Its mountains are a part of the…

The Andes are the longest continental mountain range on Earth, stretching along the whole length…

Rhodope mountain in Bulgaria has been always my favorite mountain. It’s not so high, its…

Related Posts

A journey to Tagong and its grasslands- a green paradise in Eastern Tibet, China

Discover Yilhun Lhatso in Chola Mountain- a fantastic hidden gem in Eastern Tibet

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

• Customize Trip

• Quick Questions? Email Us
• Talk to an expert (Sagar) Chat With Us

Kali Gandaki valley trek to Tatopani, Marpha & Muktinath

•   0 Reviews - 25 Booked

About Kali Gandaki trekking

Kali Gandaki valley trek is an incredible adventure that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and physical challenge. It’s a journey of a lifetime that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you’re looking for an adventure that will take you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of the Himalayas, then the Annapurna Circuit Trek is definitely worth considering.

Kali Gandaki valley trek is a part of traditional salt trading route to Tibet. Magar, Gurung and Thakali people are main inhabitant of Kali Gandaki  corridor . The visitors get the opportunity to know about the cultural heritage and the traditions of the villages in the Annapurna trekking region.

Mustang, Nepal

Min 2 to Max 10 Persons

Muktinath 3760 meters / 12336 feet

March to May & Sept to Dec

Trekking & Sightseeing

Tea houses / Lodges / Hotels

3 Meals a day (BLD)

Flight, Drive & Hiking

Pokhara to Tatopani

Jomsom to Pokhara

Kali Gandaki valley trek overview

Kali Gandaki valley trek essentially take you to the deepest gorge in the world. Andha Galchhi situated at Dana, Myagdi district in Nepal. Kaligandaki River made the deepest George in the world in between two highest mountains Annapurna 8,091 m and Dhaulagiri 8,167 m. Arial distance from one peak to another is only 30 kilometers. Deepest gorge of the world 5517 meters lower then Mount Annapurna and 5647 lower then Mount Dhaulagiri.

Explore beautiful scenery with the close up view of mountain, typical villages, lush-green forests, dry desert, deep gorge and altitude variation are main attraction of Kali Gandaki valley  trekking package . It takes 11 days duration to complete. Highest elevation of this trek is 3,710 meters at “Muktinath”.

Why Kali Gandaki valley trek so popular?

Kali Gandaki valley trek is not only famous for its natural beauty but also for its cultural diversity. The trek offers a chance to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of the Gurung, Magar, and Thakali communities. Trek follows the Kali Gandaki River, which flows between two of the highest mountains in the world, Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.

Kali Gandaki valley trek is a part of Annapurna circuit trek . It is possible to combine this trip with Poon hill trek and upper mustang trek also. It is low altitude easy trek any one can go year round. Best time of the year for Kali Ganadki valley trek are from autumn and spring.

The feel of adventure gets augmented as the trail takes you through the Kali Gandaki gorge, beautiful landscapes, pristine villages and mesmerizing panorama of majestic Himalayan peaks. Kaligandaki valley trek start from Pokhara by drive crossing throw Kusma, Beni and Tatopani. After enjoying natural hot spring, actual trek start towards Mustang Nepal.  Kali Gandaki valley trek offers a wide range of landscapes, from dense forests to rocky trails, and from terraced fields to desert types high land of Himalayas .

We organize trek to Kali Gandaki valley, let us guide you into the mystical land of Annapurna area. You will find yourself encircled with the wonders of nature and aroma of captivating culture of Thakali ethnic group.

Kali Gandaki valley trek highlights

• Walk along ancient salt trading route to Tibet in Kali Gandaki valley of Nepal.
• Discover the world's deepest gorge “Kali Gandaki gorge” flanked by Dhaulagiri & Annapurna massif.
• Enjoy an incredible view of high mountains, ice fall, lakes, apple orchard and waterfalls.
• Trek through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to arid desert-like terrain of Himalayas.
• Experience local cuisine of ethnic Thakali, Magar and Gurung people.
• Enjoy natural hot spring in Tatopani in Myagdi district of Nepal.
• Discover the traditional villages, rich culture and the way of life in Mustang.
• Visit sacred Muktinath temple, a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Kali Gandaki valley trek itinerary

Day 1 : arrival day in kathmandu, nepal.

After arrival in Kathmandu Airport (TIA) Nepal, our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel by private vehicle. At hotel he/ she will give short briefing about program agreement and day to day plan. Check into hotel, use free time to take rest, relax and explore around Thamel.

Elevation:  1,400 meters / 4593 feet.

Day 2 : Drive or flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara 820 meters / 2690 feet

The main ways to travel from Katmandu to Pokhara are by bus, private car and plane as per the budget, interest and booking deal. It takes 6 to 7 hours to cross 200 kilometers distance of Prithivi Highway in between Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you prefer flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara then only takes about 25 minutes. Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara is incredibly scenic, with breathtaking views of Himalayan mountains, waterfalls, picturesque scenery, Trishuli & Marshyangdi River. Along the way, you will pass through small towns and villages that give you a glimpse into the rural life of Nepal. Once you reach Pokhara, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Annapurna range, serene Phewa Lake and beautiful Pokhara city. After checking into hotel you can take a rest or go to explore lakeside area, boating and walk around watching the reflection of mountain and sky in beautiful Phewa Lake. Journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara end but memories last forever.

Day 3 : Drive to Tatopani 1190 meters / 3904 feet enjoy natural hot spring

Day 4 : trek to deepest gorge in the world then to kalopani 2530 meters / 8300 feet, day 5 : trek to marphga 2679 meters / 8789 feet via larjung and tukuche village, day 6 : trek to kagbeni 2800 meters / 9186 feet via thini, visit tiri village & monasteries, day 7 : trek to ranipauwa via jharkot, visit muktinath 3760 meters / 12336 feet, day 8 : trek to jomsom 2720 meters / 8923 feet.

Muktinath to Jomsom journey begin after Muktinath temple exploration at Ranipauwa village in mustang. The distance from Muktinath to Jomsom is about 21 kilometers and possible to go by driving or walking as per preferences. It takes about 1 hour by driving and 5 to 6 hours by walking depend on your pace. Trail descent from Muktinath towards the Kali Gandaki river crossing Jharkot, Khingar, Kagbeni and Ekle Bhatti villages in Annapurna region of Nepal. This is quite popular route offer stunning views of unique landscape, mountains, including Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri and more. Jomsom is famous for its apple orchards and strong winds that blow through Kali Gandaki valley. After crossing suspension bridges over Kali Gandaki river, ultimately you reach Jomsom, check in hotel either rest, relax or explore around city, museum, apple orchards and interact with local etc. Muktinath to Jomsom trip is an incredible experience in Kali Gandaki valley where you witness the beauty of lower mustang closely.

Day 9 : Flight or drive back to Pokhara

Today is the day to say goodbye to Mustang, early in the morning, we will take a flight to Pokhara. Jomsom to Pokhara flight is a popular domestic route of Nepal. Plane passes through a gorge between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, offers stunning view of snow-capped mountains and valleys below. Once you arrive in Pokhara, there are plenty of places to see and things to do. You can spend rest of the day in leisure or walk around the streets of lake city, souvenir shopping, boating in Phewa lake and experience nightlife in Pokhara etc. The weather of Jomsom change in no time that affect Pokhara flight frequently. If the weather is not fine, we’ll arrange jeep to drive back to Pokhara. We request you to plan some buffer time for this possibility and be flexible to use alternative ways of transportation like jeep or helicopter. Jomsom Pokhara travel by jeep is a great way to explore the beautiful scenery, countryside, waterfalls, people and culture of Nepal, the memories will remain forever.

Day 10 : Drive or flight back to Kathmandu

After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Kathmandu, a scenic drive takes around 6-7 hours to reach by jeep, car or tourist bus and 25 minute by flight as per deal. On the way back to Kathmandu by drive along the Marshyangdi and Trishuli river seeing the sight of countryside and beautiful high mountains and greenery around. Upon arrival in Kathmandu valley, you’ll check into hotel, use free time to take rest, relax and explore around Thamel for souvenir shopping and relaxation. Enjoy farewell dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of trip.

Day 11 : Airport transfer to depart Nepal

Amazing Nepal trip completed today! Our company representative will transfer to international airport 3 hours before your flight departure. “Enjoy the journey! Hope to see you again soon and stay in touch.”

What are included in this package?

• Airports pick up on your arrival day by private vehicle
• Round trip drive / flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Pokhara to Tatopani by private vehicle (trek start point)
• All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) 3 cups of hot drink each day on choice
• Best accommodation at tea houses during mustang trek period
• Professional English speaking guide service trained by government of Nepal
• Experience trekking staffs (2 guest =1 porter basic) to carry your backpack
• All necessary paperwork, trekking permits (ACAP, TIMS) and local taxes
• Jomsom to Pokhara by drive / flight on choice / situation
• Hotel accommodation in Pokhara for 2 nights before and after trek
• Travel and rescue arrangements if require
• Visa fees / international airfare to and from Kathmandu
• Hotel, Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
• Personal expenses phone calls, mineral water, bar bills, hot shower, battery recharge, extra porters & gears etc
• Tips for guides, porters (Tipping are expected but not mandatory)

Kali Gandaki valley trek cost & dates

Upper Mustang trek & tours organize verity of trip in Himalayas. Departure dates are 100% guaranteed until and unless there is no political unrest, natural disasters or epidemics in the destination. Start dates are your arrival date in Kathmandu and end dates are the returning date from Nepal. Listed departure dates & price quoted on group joining basic. if given dates are not suits you, or travelling with friend let us to know to book private trip as per your requirements.

Additional Information

Kali Gandaki valley trek map

The deepest gorge in the world located in dana village of Myagdi district in Nepal. it is known as Kali Gandaki Gorge or Andha Galchi situated in-between Mount Dhaulagiri 8,167 meters, and Annapurna massif 8,091 meters the seventh and tenth highest mountain in the world.

The best time of the year for Kali Gandaki Valley trek is from March to May in spring and September to November in autumn season but possible to do year-round. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies and excellent visibility for mountain for trekking in lower Mustang.

Mainly two permits required for the Kali Gandaki Valley trek are ACAP and TIMS. Obtain these permit through the reputed trekking agency either Kathmandu or Pokhara before go.

Generally, Kali Gandaki valley trek is safe and rewarding experience. However, be careful with some potential risks factors like Altitude, wildlife, weather and disaster (landslide) and trek with experience guide.

It is one of the low elevation trip, go to see scenic mountain view, incredible scenery and feel the real image of country side in Nepal. Kali Gandaki Valley trek is a moderate trek but need to walk on uphill and downhill trails.

Yes, you can do the Kali Gandaki Valley Trek alone. However, we advise you to go with guide that help to ensure your safety and make the trek more enjoyable.

The cost of Kaligandaki valley trek will vary depend on the mode of transportation you choose, number of days you trekking, quality of food and accommodation and side trip you do. Typically, 7/8 days Kaligandaki valley trekking cost around $800 to 1100 per person from Kathmandu.

Kali Gandaki valley trek reviews

Travel experience of our clients who recently returned from their trips

• 99% Success Rate
• Instant Online Booking
• Guaranteed Departure
• Privacy Protected

Quick Contact

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

Upper Mustang Tours Package

• Luxury Upper Mustang tour
• Mustang Tiji festival tour
• Pokhara to Upper Mustang tour
• Kathmandu to Upper mustang tour
• Lo Manthang tour
• Budget Upper Mustang tour
• Motorcycle tours to Upper Mustang
• Upper Mustang Helicopter tour

Upper Mustang Trek Package

• Upper Mustang trek
• Upper Mustang Tiji Festival trek
• Upper Mustang Camping trek
• Upper Mustang Yoga trek
• Lo Manthang trek
• Mustang Ghar Gompa trek
• Luri Gumba trek to Mustang
• Upper Dolpo to Mustang trek

Exclusive Trip - You May Like

Gokyo lakes trek

Annapurna circuit trek to Mustang via Thorong La pass Nepal

Annapurna base camp trek Nepal cost, route map & itinerary

Write a review.

• Tour Packages

Kali Gandaki Valley Trek

The Kali Gandaki Valley Trek, named after the Kali Gandaki River, which flows through the deepest gorge in the world, offers a captivating journey through one of Nepal's most historic and geologically significant regions. This trek traverses diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to arid, desert-like terrains, closely following the ancient trade routes between Tibet and Nepal. The majestic Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountains flanked the valley, providing breathtaking views and a dramatic backdrop to the journey.

• Search Results
• Our Top Picks
• Lowest Price First
• Highest Rated

DAY 1 Day 1: Kathmandu to Pokhara

Day 2 day 2: pokhara to nayapul to tikhedhunga, day 3 day 3: tikhedhunga to ghorepani, day 4 day 4: ghorepani to tatopani, day 5 day 5: tatopani to ghasa, day 6 day 6: ghasa to marpha, day 7 day 7: marpha to kagbeni, day 8 day 8: kagbeni to muktinath, day 9 day 9: muktinath to jomsom, day 10 day 10: jomsom to pokhara.

Trekking Encounters

trekking in nepal, nepal hiking tours

Jomsom Muktinath Trek

Jomsom Muktinath trek is a classic route that goes along the world’s deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki River in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Anyone with a moderate level of fitness can do this trek and the maximum elevation to reach is at 3,760 meters in Muktinath. Muktinath Temple has become a popular pilgrimage destination among Hindus of India after the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a homage in 2018.

We fly early morning from Pokhara to Jomsom and start our trek on the Tibetan Plateau and arrive at Kagbeni. Kagbeni serves as the gateway to the ‘Forbidden Kingdom of Mustang’ also known as ‘Upper Mustang’. The next day we trek to Muktinath, a popular and sacred place for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. The temple has 108 water taps emerging from sacred water springs for religious bath.

Alternatively, Muktinath Darshan by Jeep is another way to visit Muktinath. Similarly, Muktinath Yatra by Helicopter is an ideal trip to the luxury travellers.

Brief Itinerary:

Some major attractions of Jomsom Muktinath trek include typical Mustang villages, hundreds of years old monastery, caves, local tribes and scenic landscapes. The tree-less barren landscape, a steep rocky trail up and down hill with panoramic views of Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and several other peaks will add some adventures on this trek.

Tatopani is also popular for its natural hot water spring. There is a strong belief to cure many skin allergies due to the minerals present in it. Poonhill is yet another attraction of Jomsom-Muktinath trekking route for panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Sunrise at Poonhill is one of the important highlights of Jomsom Muktinath trek.

Is there alternative trekking route available from Tatopani to Jomsom?

The traditional route of Jomsom Muktinath trek is now replaced by motorable roads from Muktinath to Tatopani. The road between Jomsom to Tatopani becomes dusty and can result irritation to the trekkers. So, there is an alternative off-the-beaten trail available parallel to the road across the Kaligandaki River for interested trekkers.

Likewise, the Pokhara to Jomsom flight can be avoided and road journey can be chosen between Tatopani to Jomsom or Muktinath. Once reaching at the Muktinath Temple, we can trek back to Tatopani via the less travelled alternative route. However, it meets the main trail at several points. This unexplored trail also offers the unmatched Himalayan panorama.

From Muktinath, the alternative trekking trail passes through the main villages of Lupra, Thinigaon, Chhairo, Sirkung, Titi, Kunjo, Gadpar, Narchyang and finally joins at Tatopani. The trail offers the breathtaking views of the striking Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Annapurna peaks. However, the facilities available are basic and seasonal. Please Contact Us for Jomsom Muktinath trek itinerary via the alternative route.

Best time for Jomsom Muktinath Trek

• High Season: March to May and September to November are the best seasons for Jomsom Muktinath trek. The spring is a blooming time and the autumn has a clear sky just after the monsoon.
• Low Season: It is possible to trek in December despite some cold and June is still favourable before the monsoon arrives.
• Off Season: The Jomsom to Muktinath section may remain closed due to snowfall in January-February; while the lower section between Tatopani to Jomsom might be affected by the landslide and summer flood in July-August.

Interested to explore more in the area? Then Upper Mustang Lo Manthang Trek would be the right option.

Cost (Includes/Excludes)

• Scenic mountain flight from Pokhara to Jomsom
• Views of plateau like in Tibet
• The panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalayan range
• The pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple and the eternal flame
• The stone Vishnu (Shaligram) available on the Kaligandaki River valley
• Monasteries in Tukuche, Marpha, Kagbeni, Jharkot and Muktinath
• Great view of the Dhaulagiri Ice-fall
• The world’s deepest Kaligandaki gorge
• The natural hot spring pond at Tatopani
• Impressive Sunrise views from Poonhill

Today we have a 200km (124 miles) drive (6-7 hours by bus or car) from Kathmandu to Pokhara. We take a tourist bus that leaves at 7am from Kantipath, near Thamel. This is a scenic drive along the bank of the Trishuli River with great country side. Alternatively one can also fly between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

We take a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom which will be for about 20 minutes. Jomsom which straddles the Kali Gandaki River, is the administrative centre for the Mustang district and is a busy place with plenty of lodges on both sides of the river and the facilities like shops, banks, a military post, a police check point, an ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Project) information office, a health post, a post office and telephone facilities. From Jomsom there are two route options for trekking to Kagbeni, the original stony sandy trail on the east bank, or the new route on the west bank which has some tremendous views. Assuming we take the new track, we will come to a long suspension bridge spanning the river; we cross it and after a while will reach the small settlement of Eklebhatti (2,740m/8,990ft). The name Eklebhatti means “one hotel” but this no longer applies because it now has several lodges and shops. At this point, just before crossing the bridge to the east bank, there is a stunning view of Nilgiri North (7,061m/23,166ft). Continuing along the bank from Eklebhatti, we will come to our overnight stop, the village of Kagbeni which stands at the confluence of the Jhong Khola that runs through the village and Thak Khola (Rivers). This is an important place, as it is situated at the junction of three major trails, heading east, west and south respectively. Kagbeni also has a post office, a police check-post, ACAP information centre, several shops, many lodges and a health post. There are also three mani walls (Tibetan Buddhist prayer walls) adorned with prayer wheels, a gompa (Tibetan Buddhist monastery), a kani (archway) and a large chorten (Tibetan Buddhist monument). Trekking time 2-3 hours.

Today we leave Kagbeni by the path which rises behind “Hotel Nilgiri View” and continue climbing up the south side of the Jhong Khola valley, above oasis-like fields and orchards. After a persistent climb, we will join the direct trail from Eklebhatti which comes in from the right. Continuing on we will come to the “Romeo and Juliet Lodge” and shortly after passing this we will reach the small few lodge settlement of Khingar (3,280m/10,761ft). The trail actually bypasses Khingar and proceeds to climb to the next charming fortress-like medieval village of Jharkot (3,550m/11,647ft) which is located on a spur of hillside with small willow-fringed ponds below. It has a gompa (monastery), a fine kani and a number of lodges. Once through Jharkot the trail climbs a little more steeply and reaches our overnight stop the village of Ranipauwa (3,700m/12,139ft) which is the first part of the settlement of Muktinath. A few minutes’ walk and an ascent of about 90 meters above the village, takes us to the important religious site of Muktinath proper, the focus for so many Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Here there are shrines, gompas and a pagoda-style temple. The village of Ranipauwa has many lodges, teahouses, a few shops and campsites, a police check-post and ACAP information centre. Trekking time 3-4 hours.

Today we head off westward to Kagbeni retracing the previous days route, then trek via Eklebhatti to Jomosom possibly using the older trail on the east side of the Kali Gandaki river, instead of the new route which was probably used on our way north. It is of interest to note that there is a drop of around 1000 meters from Muktinath to Jomosom which will make life easier (!) Continuing south from Jomosom the trail crosses a wooden bridge over the Syang Khola, a tributary of the Kali Gandaki River and reaches the small village of Syang (2,820m/9,252ft) with a gompa perched on the hill above it. Proceeding on from here, in just under an hour, we should arrive at our overnight stop, the very attractive village of Marpha whose narrow paved street is flanked by many Thakali lodges. The Thakalis who originated in the Kali Gandaki valley have emerged as the entrepreneurs of Nepal and are active in many parts of its commercial life. The village has an entrance kani at both ends, a recently enlarged gompa, several shops, a post office, money changing facilities and a library. Trekking time 6-7 hours.

Today’s trek continues south west along the dirt road on the west bank of the Kali Gandaki river, passes Dhonga and reaches the large important two-part village of Tukuche (2,590m/8,497ft), divided by an open flat meadow. Here there are several lodges and hotels, four gompas, a few shops, a library and a brandy distillery (apple, peach and apricot). Next comes the architecturally interesting village of Kobang (2,580m/8,465ft). The houses here are accessed from a partially enclosed central tunnel designed to give protection from the valley’s strong gusting winds. In the centre of the village there is a pagoda-style monastery and below it a 15th century gompa. Kobang also has a post office, a public telephone, few hotels and a health post. A few minutes further on and almost merging with Kobang is Larjung (2,550m/8,366ft) with four or five lodges. The trail crosses a bridge just before entering Larjung the first building of which is a safe drinking-water station. Leaving Larjung the trail crosses two bridges a little further on a long suspension bridge en-route passing through the world’s deepest valley – the Kaligandaki gorge, before entering the small village of Kokhethanti (2,545m/8,350ft), with its four lodges. On the trek between Larjung and Kokhethanti there are stunning views of Dhaulagiri and Tukuche Peak. The trail now passes below a line of stone-built houses at the settlement of Dhampu (2,502m/8,205ft) crosses a bridge over the Thak Khola river (as the Kali Gandaki river is now called), continues along the east bank to Kalopani (2,530m/8,391ft) and then comes to the adjoining long straggling village of Lete (2,480m/8,136ft) where there are a number of hotels. The village has a government health post and telephone access. From here the trail descends steeply south-east through a stand of pines and crosses a suspension bridge over the Lete Khola. It now continues to the tiny settlement of Dhaiku/Kaiku (2,085m/6,841ft), drops down steps to cross a wooden bridge over the Kaiku Khola and shortly arrives at our overnight stop the three-part village of Ghasa with accommodation available in each section. Some of its flat-roofed buildings stand on stilts. The upper part of Ghasa has a large kani, a gompa and three lodges. Trekking time 6-7 hours.

A few minutes after leaving Ghasa, the trail crosses a suspension bridge to the left bank and then switchbacks high above the river. For a considerable distance south of Ghasa, landslides in the River Kali Gandaki gorge occasionally necessitate the route being switched from one bank to the other. Just under an hour from lower Ghasa we will come to the small two-part settlement of Pairothapla (1,890m/6,201ft) and then after a further thirty minutes or so on a steep descent in a landslide area, we reach Kopchepani, below which we change sides again by crossing a long suspension bridge to the west bank. Continuing on, we pass the beautiful Rupse Chhahara (waterfall) and then after crossing a wooden bridge arrive at the village of Rukse/Rupse (1,560m/5,118ft) where there are orange, lemon and banana trees and fields of maize on the steep hillside. Ten minutes beyond Rupse, in the now widening valley, we pass through the long settlement of Titre (1,630m/5,348ft) and reach the large three – section village of Dana (1,400m/4,593ft), which was once an important trade centre. In its final section there are a number of thatched houses and also from this point, excellent views of Annapurna South can be seen. After crossing another suspension bridge – over a tributary - and passing through the small settlement of (1,630m/5,348ft), we arrive at the popular busy village of Tatopani, an ideal place for a rest day. Trekking time 3-4 hours.

Following the welcome day’s relaxation in Tatopani we head south, with the trail climbing a stairway of stone steps, and after a while we will come to a long suspension bridge which takes us across the Kali Gandaki River to the left bank, from where we enter the small village of Ghar Khola (1,175m/ 3,855ft) located on the tributary of that name. We now cross the Ghar Khola Bridge and fork left away from the main (Beni) trail and climb a steep hillside with terraced fields and exotic trees. At the next fork we bear right and ascend a formidable seemingly endless stairway of stone slabs. Then from Tatopani the trail leaves the forest and we first reach Santosh Hill (1,500m/4,921ft) – with excellent views to the north and south – then the settlement of Birauta and after a short trek arrive at the village of Ghara (1,700m/5,577ft) which has several teahouses and shops. From here we have a continuing climb to reach our overnight stop Shikha. This substantial village is built on ascending levels with teahouses and lodges in the lower part and a few simple shops and a school in the upper region. It also commands striking views of both the high mountains and the surrounding terraced lower levels. Trekking time 4-5 hours.

Today the trek continues to climb and after a while leaving Shikha we pass through the small settlement of Ghopte Kharka from where there are more sightings of Dhaulagiri. Next we reach Phalante (2,270m/7,448ft) with its large school, one shop, a teahouse and two lodges. Further ahead we arrive at Chitre where refreshments are available. The last section of today’s trek from here is still uphill and finally it will take us to Ghodepani/Ghorepani, a bustling village with shops, lodges and camp grounds and because of the attraction of nearby Poonhill/Pun Hill (3,210m/10,532ft), the route at this point is the most heavily trekked in Nepal. Trekking time 3-4 hours.

A Poonhill sunrise is one of trekking not-to-be-missed experiences – it is unique. Therefore as the climb to the summit, among rhododendrons, takes about one hour, we will set out on a path from the centre of the village at least one hour before sunrise. There is a lookout tower on the highest point and below it is a very welcome tea station. Having enjoyed this experience we will then head off for Tikhedhunga after breakfast at Ghorepani. The trail passes pleasantly through rhododendron forest and descends at Ulleri village (1,960m/6,430ft) and reaches to Tikhedhunga (1,540m/5,052ft) where we stop for overnight rest. Trekking time 5-6 hours.

Descending from Tikhedhunga via Birethanti (1,040m/3,412ft) to Pokhara, one can see mules loaded with goods en-route. There is a small Walk up to Nayapul (New-bridge) from Birethanti and we take a drive for one hour to Pokhara by bus or taxi (42km). We then check in to a hotel in Pokhara and relax for the rest of the day. Trekking time 3-4 hours.

We are more relaxed in Pokhara with the beautiful morning and later we drive or fly back to Kathmandu. Regular tourist buses leave at 7am. Option available for extending your trip with Jungle Safari adventure, white water rafting or a trip of your choice.

Cost Includes:

• Annapurna Conservation Area (ACAP) permit and TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System)
• Three meals (B/L/D) a day on trekking from teahouse/lodge
• Accommodations at teahouse/lodge in the mountains
• An English speaking Trekking Guide
• A porter shared between two trekkers
• Staff insurance, salary, food, accommodation and their transportation
• Land transportation from Nayapul to Pokhara by a private vehicle
• Kathmandu-Pokhara-Kathmandu overland transfers by Tourist bus
• Regular flight for Pokhara to Jomsom and ground transfers
• First aid kit box
• A farewell Nepali dinner with live culture program

Cost Excludes:

• Bar and beverages bills, bottled water
• Nature of personal expenses
• Personal cloths and equipment such as sleeping bag, jacket, boots etc.
• Insurance for accidental, medical and evacuation
• Tips to the staff
• International Airfare and Taxes
• Kathmandu City Cultural Tour
• Mt. Everest Flight
• Jungle Safari in Chitwan or Bardia National Park
• Bird Watching in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
• White Water Rafting in Nepal
• Bungy Jumping / Canyoning / Paragliding / Ultralight Flight
• Shopping Tours

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

• Transportation Fly in Pokhara-Jomsom, Drive out Nayapul-Pokhara
• Maximum Elevation 3,760 meters
• Trip Grade Medium

Recent Posts

Everest Base Camp Trek Cost (Updated)

Hike for Health

Tourist Season Kicks off in Nepal

• Trekking in Nepal
• Peak Climbing
• Cultural Tours
• Jungle Safari
• Tibet Trips
• Bhutan Trips

Things to Know

• Nepal Information
• Travellers Information
• Equipment List
• Trip Grading Definition
• Responsible Holidays

Related trips you might interested in

Upper Dolpo Shey Gompa Trek

Makalu Base Camp Trek

Kali Gandaki River

Top ways to experience Kali Gandaki River and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Kali Gandaki River - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

jQuery(document).ready(function($) { var retina = window.devicePixelRatio > 1 ? true : false; if( retina ) { jQuery('.header-wrapper .logo img').attr('src', 'http://highlightstourism.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Hilights-Tourism-Logo.png'); jQuery('.header-wrapper .logo img').attr('width', ''); } });

Breathtaking trekking through kali gandaki gorge.

Kali Gandaki gorge is the world’s deepest canyon found in Nepal. Trekking through this deepest gorge will not only be an experience of wonders and surprises, but also an incredibly fun you will ever enjoy in your lifetime at the cheapest price. 

The deepest Kaligandaki gorge is elevated at 5,571 m or 18,278 ft lower than Annapurna which bounds it at one point. The other name for the Kali Gandaki canyon is Thak Khola, which has been named after the local indigenous groups known as Thakali people.  The deepest gorge separates the peaks of Dhaulagiri (8,167m) on the west and Annapurna (8,091 m) on the east. 

If you can measure the depth of the Kali Gandaki canyon by the difference between the river height and the heights of the mountain peaks on either side, the gorge is the world’s deepest one.  The depth of the gorge continues to be increased as the tectonic activity forces the surrounding mountain to move up higher. 

One of the famous fossils of this region known as Shaligram found here is venerated as one of the five non-living forms of Lord Vishnu. This trekking trail is also known as the Apple Pie trek of this region.  This spectacular trekking starts from the Thak Khola region.

During the trek, you will also have an opportunity to visit desert type of arid landscape and popular pilgrimage temple of Muktinath.  The other interesting things to see are the diversity of flora and fauna and people’s ancient cultural heritage. 

Best time to trek

Spring and autumn are the two best seasons for treks through the deepest gorge of the world.

• Related Articles
• More By Highlights Tourism

Mustang as international tourist destination

3 new trekking routes identified in Mustang

Foreign Tourists Flock to Himalayan Routes

Two climbers from Mongolia go missing during Everest expedition

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Luring Mustang as one of the top tourist destinations in Nepal involves highlighting its u…

Luring Mustang as one of the top tourist destinations in Nepal involves highlighting its …

Climbing Star Nirmal Purja Faces Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Prime Minister Dahal Announces Climber Welfare Fund

Two Nepali Women Make History on Mount Everest

Editor: Khim Ghale [email protected] www.highlightstourism.com is dedicated to promoting tourism activities in Nepal. We produce video documentaries, feature articles, blogs, and guides related to the Nepali tourism destination, heritage, culture, and society.

Highlights Tourism Highlights Tower, Bakhundol Lalitpur Phone: 977-01-5010633 Email: [email protected] Registration Number: 1622/076-77 Department of Information and Broadcasting

• Latest News
• Advertisement

• Best Hikes In The World
• Appalachian Trail
• European Hikes
• Nepal Hikes
• Patagonia Hikes
• See All Hikes
• Mount Kenya
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Toubkal
• See All Mountains
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Packing Lists

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek – One Of Nepal’s Most Demanding Treks

Asia , Nepal

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most demanding treks and requires previous experience of high-altitude trekking. Rope, ice axe and crampons are usually required, and you might need to wear a helmet as some stretches of path are susceptible to small rockfalls.

On this page, you will find a comprehensive and impartial guide to the Dhaulagiri Circuit hike. Discover when to go, what the route entails and other FAQs about the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek.

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek

The Dhaulagiri Circuit is said by some to be the toughest three-week trek in Nepal. The bare minimum duration is 13 trekking days plus two more for acclimatisation, but most trek options are over 20 days long. This can be extended with some side trips such as the option to climb the non-technical Dhampus Peak (6,060m). Since many of the trails on the first half of the trek are rarely used, the services of a guide are highly recommended.

The Dhaulagiri Circuit takes you around the towering form of Mount Dhaulagiri (26,795 feet). Mount Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest mountain on Earth and was first climbed in 1960. From 1808 to 1848, it was thought to be the highest, although that honour has been held by Everest since 1852.

In the extinct Indian language of Sanskrit, “dhavala” means “white” and “giri” means “mountain.” While other mountains have the same name, this particular white mountain is perhaps the most spectacular. The trek winds up through high alpine pastures, even higher passes and serene, remote valleys.

Please Note:  Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a big risk on the Dhaulagiri Trek as sudden increases in altitude cannot be avoided on this trek – the ground rises by 23,000 feet in the space of less than 20 miles.

Trekking at such an altitude is a challenge even for fit and very experienced hikers. Acclimatisation is essential, but it cannot guarantee a risk-free completion of the Dhaulagiri Trek.  

Warning: Due to the altitude and remoteness, the consequences of bad weather are much more severe.

Dhaulagiri Trek Map

Dhaulagiri is northwest of Pokhara, in the Dhaulagiri region as seen in the map below.

Recommended Map

There are slim pickings for guidebooks on the Dhaulagiri Trek.

The 2001 guidebook called Trekking Everest: Base Camp, Kala Patar and Other Trekking Routes in Nepal and Tibet (2019) dedicates a chapter to the trek; however, this is a little out of date now. 

There is a trekking map available here .

Dhaulagiri Circuit Route Information

Typical itinerary.

There are several Dhaulagiri Circuit trek itineraries that can be done. Below we have laid out the most popular version – 23 days, leaving from Kathmandu. If you want to make your own way to Pokhara or Beni, then you could probably organise this with your operator or guide.

Arrive Kathmandu – a popular destination for tourists. It presents an exotic mix of Hinduism, Buddhism and western influence. Attractions include the largest Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath and the Buddhist religious monument of Nepal Boudhanath.

For things to do in Kathmandu, see best places to visit in Nepal .

From Kathmandu, it takes half an hour to fly and seven hours to drive to Pokhara. Must-sees include the beauteous temple of Bindabasini , Davis fall, Mahendra cave, Phewa Lake, the famous Seti Gorge and the Pokhara Mountain Museum. You will spend the night in Pokhara.

Following breakfast, it takes four hours to drive to Beni. There is a police checkpoint where your permits will be studied and verified. From this point on, nights are spent in a tented camp.

Today, your trek begins properly. You will depart Beni for Kali Gandaki, trekking west along the northern bank of the Kyagdi Khola, through the village of Beni Mangalghat and on to Singa Bazar.

From Singa Bazar, you will go to Takum.

You will head north, crossing a river. The trail ascends, eventually becoming steep. It then takes you to Sibang and Mattim. Next, you will descend to the Gatti Khola before reaching Phalai Gaon (5,940 feet). From there, you will cross the Dhara Khola to emerge on Myagdi Khola’s west bank. Having climbed a ridge, you will arrive at Muri (6,070 feet), where the views of Dhaulagiri and other mountains are simply stunning.

Day 7 

After descending for a short while, you will cross a stream and then terraced fields. With a ridge behind you, you will come to a pass from which Mount Ghustung South (21,210 feet) is visible. You will go down to Myagdi Khola and trek along its west bank until you arrive at the village of Naura. After that, you will ascend briefly. After crossing a grassy hill and climbing a steep slope where there are switchbacks, you will descend through a forest and then terraced fields, which brings you to Boghara (6,820 feet).

The trail continues after Boghara. You descend through terraced fields before coming to a small ridge. Then you will enter a forest area to reach Jyardan. After that, a high, winding path spans a rocky area and goes down and then up to Lipshe, where there is no more than a single hut. The trail goes through a forest to Lapche Kharka and then rises to Dobang. The going is hard, and ropes may be needed.

After making use of a wooden bridge at Dobang, the trail ascends, and you will find yourself among trees. The forest is beautiful and rises sharply. After traversing Myagdi Khola, you cross a stream to reach Choriban Khola. You will then reach the end of the Chhonbarban Glacier. Tukche Peak (22,430 feet) can be seen at the far end, while the imposing north face of Dhaulagiri I (26,790 feet) dominates the skyline to your right. To the West the summits of Dhaulagiris II (25,430 feet), III (25,310 feet) and V (25,000 feet) can be seen.

This day is spent resting and acclimatising.

Now, you will head for Midway Camp. This trail is somewhat tough, A rope will usually be used at certain points on this trail. The surroundings are quite remarkable and provide fantastic vistas of the beautiful snow-capped peaks.

This is another rest day for acclimatisation.

You will climb to the spectacular Classic Base Camp at 16,400 feet. This is where you will get the best views of all of the Dhaulagiri range.

Another day of rest and acclimatisation.

You will climb two terraced hills and then enter a valley. You will climb to the highest point of the trek – the French Col (16,730 feet), known to some as the ‘French Connection’. From there, you can see Mukut Himal (20,760 feet), Tashi Kang (20,950 feet) and Sita Chuchura (21,690 feet).

South is Tukche Peak (22,700 feet) and beyond that, the mass that is Dhaulagiri I. From French Col, the trail goes to Dhampus Pass (17,060 feet), which is the hardest portion of this trek. You will camp for the night below Dhampus Pass.

This is a rest day, but it is possible to climb Dhampus Peak (6,060 m).

Having climbed Dhampus Pass, you pass through slopes, which are flooded and then descend steeply to Yak Kharka. From there, you will call at Alubari.

You will descend the breathtaking Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world. After passing the villages of Jharkot and Khingar, you will stick to the valley floor for most of the way to Jomsom. This occupies both banks of the Kali Gandaki and grants lovely views of the Nilgiri peaks. You will then trek down to Marpha, which boasts a well-planned drainage system. This is welcome refuge from the powerful winds of the area. It is well-known for its apples and their byproducts of apple cider and apple, apricot and peach alcohol.

Your descent of the Kali Gandaki Gorge continues to Tukuche, where you come upon a large gompa – a fortified Buddhist seat of learning. Next, you will walk along the Kali Gandaki’s west bank to Larjung. You then face forests of cypress, juniper and pine as you head for Kalopani, with splendid views of Annapurna I and Fang. You will come to Lete around 20 minutes later.

The trail descends sharply through forests to Ghasa, the southernmost extent of Tibetan Buddhism. Next comes the steepest and narrowest section of the gorge. There is a magnificent waterfall at the small town of Rupse. Next, you will next stop at Dana, from here there is a fine view of the huge peak of Annapurna South across the valley. The trail falls to Tatopani, where you absolutely must try the apple pie and hot springs!

Not far downstream from Tatopani, you will cross the river using a large suspension bridge, putting the Kali Gandaki behind you. You will pass the villages of Sikha and Chitre and negotiate a forest that brings you to Deprali, a pass that is 9,300 feet up and provides first class vistas of Annapurna 1, Annapurn South, Dhaulagiri, Hiunchuli and Nilgiri. 10 minutes later, you will trek into the village of Ghorepani. The name means “horse water” – it was used by mules as they plied the route from Pokhara to Jomsom.

An hour-long ascent begins before dawn, supplying intriguing views of the Annapurnas and Dhaulagiri, which glow in the morning sun from your vantage point on Poon Hill (10,570 feet). After breakfasting, you will commence the lengthy descent to Birthanti via striking oak and rhododendron forests. You will then come to the village of Ulleri and make your way up a steep staircase that feels as if it goes on forever, bringing you to Hille. You will descend inexorably to Birthanti, a short distance from the road, where a vehicle will take you back to Pokhara.

Return to Kathmandu.

Dhaulagiri Circuit FAQ

When is the best time to trek dhaulagiri.

The best time to trek Dhaulagiri is autumn, which is from September to November. During this time, weather conditions are mild and stable, making for slightly cool days and nights. 

How much does the Dhaulagiri trek cost?

For one person, the Dhaulagiri trek can cost just under $3,000. However, if you travel in a bigger group (anywhere from 4-6 trekkers), you'll likely to get more of a discount and pay just under $2,000 per person. There are over 1000 local trekking agencies in Nepal , so make sure you pick a good, well reviewed operator.

Are permits required for the Dhaulagiri trek?

Yes, permits are required for the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek. You will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit (ACAP) permit which costs about $30. You can pick up your permit at either the Tourist Service Centre in Kathmandu or the Tourism Office in Pokhara. 

How difficult is the Dhaulagiri trek?

The Dhaulagiri Trek is a challenging hike. The trail ascends and descends through isolated areas, which can make medical assistance tricky in emergencies. Therefore, a good level of fitness is required as the trek is quite long and often steep.

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Dhaulagiri trek?

Yes, altitude sickness is a risk on the Dhaulagiri Trek as sudden increases in high-altitude cannot be avoided on this trail. It is important to have a solid understanding of the risks associated with high altitude trekking and how the body acclimatises to high altitude.

Do I need insurance for the Dhaulagiri Trek?

We recommend you get insurance for the Dhaulagiri hike. If an accident or incident should occur that requires immediate medical assistance and evacuation, you will most definitely want adequate trekking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment.

Make sure you have insurance that covers you for any travel related risks, like lost, stolen, damaged or delayed baggage, interruptions and flight delays and tour operators' default.

Please read our article on  Nepal travel and trekking insurance as it provides great information on what type of insurance you'd need.

Continue browsing

See more information on  Nepal . Or check out these other Nepal hiking articles:

• Short Nepal Treks
• Easy Nepal Hikes
• Everest Base Camp Hikes
• Kala Patthar Hikes
• Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trail
• Rara Lake Trek
• Climbing Mera Peak
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Langtang Valley Trails
• Trekking the Manaslu Circuit
• Helambu Trek
• Hiking the Mustang Circuit
• Gokyo Lakes Hike
• Makalu Base Camp Trail
• Gosainkunda Trek
• Limi Valley Trail

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices

• 0 Shopping Cart $ 0.00 -->

Through the Kali Gandaki River Gorge

The mountain cleanup project expedition team is coming ever closer to their first climbing and cleanup objective, Annapurna 1 . Navigating their way through the Kali Gandaki River Gorge , the team enjoyed an exciting and scenic drive with views all around of towering cliffs and the river below. A few days of acclimatizing is planned for the team over the next few days as the team prepares to continue higher on the way towards Annapurna ! Expedition leader, Terray Sylvester , checks in with this dispatch from Nepal :

Hello! This is Terray calling in for the Madison Mountaineering Annapurna 1 (8091m/26,545ft) and Lhotse (8516m/27,940ft) expedition – today is March 23. Yesterday we drove from Pokhara (822m/2,697ft) to the little town of Jomsom (2743m/8,999ft) on the border of Mustang , just to the west of Annapurna 1 and to the east of Dhaulagiri (8167m/26,795ft). The drive was very scenic! The Kali Gandaki River Gorge is one of the deepest gorges on the planet because it’s between two 8,000-meter peaks. We had a great dinner last night and we woke up this morning to clear, sunny skies and excellent views of Nilgiri North (7061m/23,166ft) and Tilicho Peak (7134m/23,406ft). From here we drive to Kagbeni (2804m/9,199ft) and then we’ll trek up to Muktinath (3762m/12,343ft). We’ll acclimatize for the next few days before heading over to Annapurna base camp (4130m/13,549ft) where we’ll start preparing for our climb and also start picking up trash. This expedition is a combined climbing and trash cleanup trip! So, all is well here and we’ll be in touch tomorrow!

Members of the team at breakfast in Pokhara.

Views of Nilgiri North and Tilicho Peak from the team’s tea house in Jomsom!

In addition to these expedition dispatches, you can also follow our teams as they make their attempts on the world’s most formidable mountains on:

– Amazon Alexa devices with the Madison Mountaineering Flash Briefing skill:

• Enable the skill and add to your flash briefing to hear our daily audio expedition updates on select expeditions.  Just say, “ Alexa, play my flash briefing. “

– Instagram :

• @MadisonMtng
• @GarrettMadison1

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

SHERPA KHUMBIYILA ADVENTURES

ANNAPURNA CIRCUIT TREK

Annapurna Circuit Trek.

The Annapurna trek begins at  Besisahar  in the  Marshyangdi  river valley and concludes in the  Kali Gandaki Gorge . Besisahar can be reached after a seven-hour drive from  Kathmandu . The trail passes along paddy fields and into subtropical forests, several waterfalls and gigantic cliffs, and various villages. Annapurna Circuit has often been voted as the best long-distance trek in the world, as it combined, in its old full form, a wide variety of climate zones from tropics at 600 m asl to the arctic at 5416 m asl at the Thorong La pass and cultural variety from Hindu villages at the low foothills to the Tibetan culture of Manang Valley and lower Mustang.   

The Annapurna Circuit trekking has been famed as a 300-kilometre trek in Nepal around the Annapurna mountain range in the Himalayas which reaches an altitude of 5,300 meters on the Thorung La pass, touching the edge of the fabled Tibetan plateau. The trek follows the ancient trade route between Nepal and Tibet which played a significant role in facilitating the flow of culture and religions in the remote region. The existing pilgrimage sites of Hindus and Buddhists in the region reveal the religious harmony among Tibetan Mahayana, Buddhism, Hinduism and the mysterious Bon - Po religion from the ancient time.

The trail follows Marshyangdi Valley north of Manang, crosses snow-covered Thorang La Pass (5430 m.) offering the spectacular views that spread from the northwest of Mustang to incredible mountain ranges of Annapurnas and Dhaulagiri to the south, passes Muktinath, an important site of Hindus and Buddhist pilgrimages. The journey continues to the south exploring the arid beauty of Tibetan plateau and crossing the world's deepest gorge backdropped by enchanting views of Mt. Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri and returns to Pokhara via Kali Gandaki River.

Max. Altitude:                    5430 m.

Trip Duration:                   17 days

Trek Grade:                      Moderate Plus

Accommodation:             Teahouse (Lodge to Lodge)

Meals:                               Breakfast, lunch & Dinner

Transportation:                Car / Van / Plane

Best Time:                        Feb, March, April, May,                                                      Oct, Nov, Dec.

Per day Hiking:                 5 to 7 hours

Day 01: Arrival and Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu (1350m). 

Day 02: Rest, preparation, City tour (Pashupatinath, Bouddha, Swayambhunath) in Kathmandu.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m-6/7 Hrs.); lodge. 

Day 04: Jeep drive from Besisahar to Dharapani (1650m-5 Hrs.); lodge. 

Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2670m-5 Hrs.); lodge.

Day 06: Trek from Chame to Lower Pisang (3200m-6 Hrs.); lodge.   

Day 07: Trek from Lower Pisang to Manang (3352m-6 Hrs.); lodge.

Day 08: Acclimatization and rest in Manang; explore the village and local attractions

Day 09: Trek from Manang to Ladder (4250m-5 Hrs.); overnight lodge. 

Day 10: Trek from Ladder to Thorong Phedi (4540m-6 Hrs.); lodge. 

Day 11 : Trek via Thorong-La Pass (5416m) to Muktinath (3710m-9 Hrs.); lodge.

Day 12 : Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom (2720m-5 Hrs.) via Kagbeni; lodge.

Day 13: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara (20 minutes), explore Pokhara city; Hotel.

Day 14 : Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (7 Hours), hotel transfer

Day 15: Fly back home Home  

Arrival and Departure transfer as per itinerary.

3 Nights Hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast (2 nights before the trip and 1 night after).

1 Nights Hotel in Pokhara.

11 nights Lodge accommodation during the trek on room sharing bases.

Private Car or Bus Kathmandu to Pokhara to Kathmandu.

All three-time meals and teahouse accommodation while on trekking.

ACAP entry free.

Trekking permit.

An Experienced trekking Guide and necessary porters for the trekking part.

All staff wages.

Insurance of the trekking and staffs.

SKA T-Shirt and (Duffel bag for use).

First Aid Kit.

Farewell Dinner with cultural show.

NOT INCLUDED

International Airfare.

Nepal visa fee.

Lunch & Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu.

Extra nights hotel in Kathmandu.

Personal equipment (your personal clothing.).

Medical insurance (high altitude coverage and emergency evacuation) and Travel insurance.

All kind of bottle beverages & telephone calls and internet usage.

Emergency rescue evacuation if needed.

Kathmandu Heritage site entrance fee during Sightseeing.

Tips to the staffs.

Find Your Tour

Main navigation.

• Subsidiary Company
• Legal Documents
• Terms and Condition
• Why Himalayan Magic Treks

Himalayan Vehicle Services Pvt. Ltd.

• Vehicle Rental in Nepal

News and Events

• Traveling to Nepal

Trekking in Nepal

Annapurna trekking.

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek
• Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
• Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Mohare Danda Trek
• Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek
• Annapurna Royal Trek
• Siklis village Trek
• Annapurna Express Trek
• Annapurna Short Hiking
• Panchase Trek
• Annapurna Sunrise View Trek
• Annapurna Khayer Trek
• Lamjung Himal Trek
• Nar Phu Kangla Pass Tilicho Trek
• Siklis Trek
• Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek
• Annapurna Mini Trek
• Annapurna Dhaulagiri Panorama Trek
• Annapurna Dhampus Pokhara Trek

Kaligandaki Valley Trek

• Annapurna Ghale Gaun Trek
• Annapurna Tilicho Mesokanto la Pass Trek

Everest Trekking

• Everest Base Camp Trek
• Everest Base Camp Heli Trek
• Everest View Trek
• Everest Gokyo Trek
• Everest short Hiking
• Everest Gokyo Kalapathar Trek
• Everest Gokyo Chola Pass Trek
• Everest Three High Pass Trek
• Rolwaling Trek
• Pikey Peak Trek
• Dudh Kunda Trek
• Solu Village Trek
• Jiri Everest Base Camp Trek
• Basa Everest Gokyo Trek
• Basa Village Cultural Trek
• Everest Base Camp via Basa Trek
• Gaurishankar Trek
• Salpa Pass Trek
• Ama Dablam Base Camp Trek

Langtang Trekking

• Langtang Gosainkunda Trek
• Langtang Gosainkunda Helambu Trek
• Langtang Ganja-La Pass Trek
• Helambu Valley Trek
• Ganesh Himal Trek
• Bhairav Kunda Trek
• Panch Pokhari Trek
• Langtang Valley Trek
• Tilman Pass Trek

Manaslu Trekking

• Manaslu Circuit Trek
• Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek
• Manaslu Circuit Tsum Valley Trek
• Rupina La pass Trek
• Bara Pokhari Trek
• Manaslu Mini Trek

Dolpo Trekking

• Upper Dolpo Trek
• Dolpo Jumla Trek
• Dolpo Mustang Trek
• Rara Lake Trek
• Lower Dolpo Trek
• Dolpo Great Himalayan Trail
• Humla Limi Valley Trek

Mustang Trekking

• Upper Mustang Trek
• Jomsom Muktinath Trek
• Lower Mustang Trek
• Mustang Damodar Kunda Trek
• Nar Phu Valley Trek
• Nar Phu mustang Teri-la Pass Trek
• Upper Mustang Overland Tour

Western Region Nepal

• Saipal Himal Trek
• Dhorpatan Trek

Eastern Region Nepal

• Kanchenjunga Trek
• Kanchenjunga Phidim Trek
• Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek
• Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
• The Great Himalayan Trail

Peak Climbing in Nepal

• Island Peak Climbing
• Mera Peak climbing
• Lobuche West Peak Climbing
• Chulu East Peak climbing
• Dhampus Peak Climbing
• Thorong Peak Climbing
• Yala Peak Climbing
• Mera Island Peak climbing
• Everest Three Peak Climbing
• Naya kanga Peak Climbing
• Nirekha Peak Climbing
• Pokalde Peak Climbing
• Singu Chuli Peak
• Mt. Cholatse peak Climbing
• Khongma Tse (Mehra) Peak climbing
• Tharpu Chuli Peak
• Kusum Kangru Peak Climbing
• Mt. Ombigaichen peak climbing
• Ramdung Peak Climbing
• Kongde Peak Climbing
• Chulu West Peak climbing
• Pisang Peak Climbing
• Paldor Peak climbing
• Kyajo Ri Peak Climbing
• Pharchamo Peak Climbing
• Mt. Chekigo Peak Climbing
• Mt. Langsisa Ri Peak Climbing
• Saribung Peak Climbing
• Tukuche Peak

Mountain Expedition

• Everest Expedition
• Himlung Himal Expedition
• Manaslu Expedition
• Ama Dablam Expedition
• Baruntse Expedition
• Shishapangma Expedition
• Annapurna Expedition
• Makalu Expedition
• Pomari Expedition
• Dhaulagiri Expedition
• Kanchenjunga Expedition
• Nuptse Expedition
• Lhotse Expedition
• Mt. Ratna Chuli Expedition
• Gyajikang Expedition
• Putha Hiuchuli Expedition

Nepal Tour Packages

• Lumbini Tour
• Bandipur Sunset view Tour
• Muktinath Pilgrimage Tour
• Chitwan Sightseeing Tour
• Best of Nepal Tour
• Kathmandu Pokhara Tour
• Kathmandu Pokhara Lumbini Tour
• Kathmandu Chitwan Pokhara Tour
• Himalayan view Tour
• Himalayan Panorama tour
• Cultural Tour Nepal

Adventure Sports in Nepal

• Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon 2025

Rafting in Nepal

• Arun River Rafting
• Tamor River Rafting
• Bhote Koshi River Rafting
• Trishuli River Rafting
• Kaligandaki River Rafting
• Seti River Rafting
• Sunkoshi River Rrafting

Helicopter Tours in Nepal

• Kathmandu Heli Tour

Mountain Biking in Nepal

• Annapurna Half Mountain Biking
• Upper Mustang Mountain Biking
• Kathmandu Valley Rim Mountain Biking
• Daman Biking
• Mountain Flight
• Tibet Motorbike Tour
• Paragliding in Nepal

Jungle Safari in Nepal

• Koshi Tappu wild life Safari
• Chitwan National Park Safari
• Bardiya National Park Safari

Hiking in Nepal

• Chisapani Nagarkot Hiking
• Nagarjung Hiking
• Shivapuri Day Hiking
• Gosaikunda Helambu Hiking
• Langtang Short Hiking
• Mustang Short Hiking

Botanical Trekking in Nepal

• Shivapuri Botanical Trek
• Langtang Botanical Trekking
• Shey Phoksundo Botanical Trek
• Makalu Botanical Trek

Home stay Trek in Nepal

• Solu Basa Village Trek
• Nepal Mountain Flight Tour

Christmas Tour in Nepal

• Everest Panorama Trek
• Traveling Facts and Tips

Volunteering in Nepal

• Himalayan Magic Guide Fund
• Himalayan Children Fund
• Bird Watching in Nepal
• Family Tour in Nepal
• Tibet Overland Tour
• Lhasa EBC Trek
• Kailash Tour
• Simikot Kailash Trek
• Tibet Everest Base Camp Trek
• Tibet Cultural Tour
• Kathmandu Lhasa Tour
• Tibet Saga Dawa Festival tour
• Samye Valley Tour
• Tibet Kharta Valley Trek
• Tibet Lhasa Nam Tso Lake Tour
• Tibet Ganden Samye Trek
• Tibet Kham Valley Trek
• Lhasa Sightseeing Tour
• Tibet Kunming Lhasa Tour
• Dragon Heart Tour
• 4 Night’s 5 Days Bhutan tour
• Bhutan Tour 6 Nights 7 Days
• 9 night's 10 Days Bhutan Tour
• 13 Night's 14 days Bhutan Tour
• Laya Trek In Bhutan
• Travel Guide

Safe Journey in the Himalayas !

• : 009779851166578 (Nabin)
• : +0633735377 (Eric)

Please share your experience if you have already travelled with Himalayan Magic Treks P.Ltd

• Annapurna Trekking »
• Trekking in Nepal »

Based On 2 Reviews

Highest access:

Group Size:

Best season:

Transportation:

Accommodation:

Kaligandaki Valley Trek lies in northern part of Pokhara. One of the most remarkable beauty of massif Annapurna views of the highest & gorgeous mountains in the world. In addition, this region is known for some of the most geographic express elevation variations experienced anywhere.

Kaligandaki Jomsom tour package set aside you to explore all the foremost highlighted things of Jomsom Muktinath region. A magnificent sunrise view at Poon Hill, view of wonderful Dhaulagiri Ice fall., encounter the world's deepest gorge, where the dominant Kali Gandaki River has cut deep through the Himalaya between the massive peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. As we trek up the Kali Gandaki valley we pass though the customary and well-off villages of Tukuche, Marpha, Ghasa and Jomsom.The Thakalis, a traditional traders, have converted their charming and wonderfully spotless residence into trekkers' lodges and are well known as one of the most gracious and successful inn-keepers in Nepal. Nepal’s religious mountain memorial Muktinath Temple area, it is best known as place of paradise large number of Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims visit this holy site. Besides the province of Mustang district offers you many Trans Himalayan cultural delights and overwhelming views of mountains as well as excellent landscape seen.

(THE TRIP PRICE Break Down AS BELOW Kaligandaki Valley Trek Trek Cost)

• Arrival and Departure transportations 2 times with Car US$ 10 x 2 times = US$ 20
• Hotel Holy Himalaya in Kathmandu per Night $50 Double room with Breakfast (In Kathmandu there will be different categories of Hotel so you can choose any option to meet your Budget then let us know, we will arrange as per your choice.)
• In the Mountain Food and accommodation (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner + Tea, Coffee) Per Day USD 30 Per Person
• Annapurna Conservation Fees USD 23 per person  
• Guide wages / salary US$ 30 per day including his food and accommodation  
• A porter wages / salary US$ 20 per day including his food and accommodation  
• Guide / Porter insurance, government Taxes per Person USD 50 
• If you need a Duffle Bag for the porter Per Duffle Bag from HMT Logos USD 20 for the accommodation in Kathmandu, you can choose any categories of Hotel you like to stay (Choose standard Hotel to Luxury Hotel so it depends on your Budget) even in the mountains choose your own Food and accommodation without complaint.
• Sleeping Bag Renting Per Day 1 USD
• Down Jacket Renting Per Day 1 USD

Photos & Videos

Kaligandaki Treks

Kaligandaki Trek

Kaligandaki Hike

Short itinerary, kaligandaki valley trek : 12 days.

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu 1,310 m, Welcome program by Himalayan Magic Treks member, than direct transfer to Hotel  Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Beni by Local bus over night Hotel Lodge Day 03: Trek to Tatopani (Hot spring) 1,190 m 6/7 hours over night at lodge Day 04: Trek to Ghasa 2,010 m 5/6 hours over night at Lodge. Day 05: Trek to Larjung over night Lodge  Day 06: Trek to Tukuche 2,590 m / Marpha 5/6 hours over night at lodge. Day 07: Trek to Kagbeni 2,800 m 5/6 over night lodge. Day 08: Trek to Muktinath 3,760 m 4 hours over night at Lodge. Day 09: Trek back to Jomsom 2,720 m stay overnight at lodge. Day 10: Flight Back to Pokhara 25 minutes visit Pokhara city and stay overnight at Pokhara Hotel with Bed & Breakfast Day 11: Drive back to Kathmandu 200 km 6 hours over night at Hotel with Bed & Breakfast plan. Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu to your onward Destination

What are included in my Package?

The Trip cost be will very depending on the size of the group, duration of the trip and services basis. Make your own team to customize the price, so contact us about the tour packages via Email:[email protected] with your details to obtain a quote.

Book a Kaligandaki Valley Trek with Local Company 100 % safe

• Airport pick up & drop by private transport
• All the transportation as per program
• Pokhara to Kathmandu by Tourist bus
• 3 meals per day during the trek (Breakfast Lunch Dinner) including Tea or coffee
• Accommodation on Tea House (Lodge) or provided Tents during the trek as mentioned in the trek type
• 2 Night’s Hotel in Kathmandu on Bed & Breakfast
• 1 Night Hotel in Pokhara on Bed & Breakfast
• An English Speaking Guide
• Necessary porter 
• All Government local Taxes
• Conservation Fees
• (TIMS)Trekkers Information Management System
• First Aid kit
• General equipment for Porter during the Adventure trip
• Guide and porter salary
• Guide and Porter insurance during the trek
• Duffle Bags refundable to protect your Luggage
• Company T-shirt as a Souvenir
• Himalayan Magic Trek’s Appreciation Certificate after the successful trek
• Farewell Dinner with typical Nepali Restaurant

What are Excluded from my Package?

• Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu/Pokhara
• Trekking equipment any type of personal expenses such as Alcoholic Beverage drinks, phone and Laundry
• Emergency Rescue and Travel Insurance.
• Trip Cancellation cost accident or Health, Loss Theft or Damage and personal effects & Tips

Airport Reception:

Upon your arrival at the airport our representatives person with a  Himalayan Magic Treks  (LOGO) sign board, to show you on your arrival exit gate. Who taking care of you with reception then safely drive to the hotel, Briefing about program details before going to Mountains. At the airport we cannot enter the interior of the airport because a person who doesn’t have a plane ticket is not allowed to enter.

Accommodations:

We give our first priority to serve the customers with the most standard level. As for the accommodation, we have been providing star hotels in Kathmandu and even Mountain guest houses during the trek according to their need and requirement. We provide convenient Guest House with sound environment and hygienic foods for the guest to make healthy their trip. Everest region is popular and has wonderful accommodation facility compared to the condition of elderly times.

We get a paradise of delicious food in Kathmandu valley. We have a lot of restaurants with different cuisine in city but during the Lodge trek we get to eat Continental, Indian and Nepali menu choices like Pasta, Pizza, Mo: Mo, Soup, Dal Bhat, Hot drinks Tea & Coffee etc. Our Guide (Leader) will manage and advice the Food for beloved Guests to be satisfy

Trekking Team:

Being homeland of Himalayas, it’s obvious to have challenging routes, dangerous weather, health issues any of these situations is enough to ruin your trip. Leading around the steeply hills and rocky routes is not a job of common climbers and trekkers. Himalayan Magic Treks have been providing native leaders and staffs working in this field perfectly since many years to overcome tough challenges and make your trip a golden memory. Our Guides are trained and well certified by the Government of Nepal. Our staffs have received proper emergency guidance and evacuation education in the Himalayas. They are also entirely aware of correct knowledge of first aid to the victims. We have never and will never compromise on the safety to our clients; therefore, we provide insurance and medical services during the trek and compensation when they needs.

Field Staffs Rules:

To pass through challenging routes and to ensure your safety and comfort, we need adequate number of staffs. It includes guide, porter, driver, assistant guide and so on. We provide guide in every trip while one assistant guide to every 4-9 group of guests and two with every 10 crew. As for the porters, we send 1 porter for every 2 guest. The number of porter also varies to the load of the clients; a porter’s maximum load is 25kg. Our staffs are professional and expert guides (leader) who can speak languages like English, French, Germany, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and other as required. We can also manage any other staffs as per your demands.

Trekking Equipment:

Equipment does matter to make your trip comfortable and better so you must be serious about check list before going to trek. We advice to take general equipment for the trek click here on link about equipment lists

Safety & Security:

Security is our primary concern from your first day you will be under our service and protection. Our staff will pick you up at the airport and will assist you to your hotel. We have proper remedial services during the trek with professional staffs and services like first aid, and we will help to arrange oxygen bag and helicopter service for emergency rescue. We also focus on acclimatization days to get rid of altitude sickness. We will take care of you on arrival to till on in your final departure date (airport drop services)

Best Season to Trek in Nepal:

Autumn ( September - November ) and spring ( March - May ) is the best season for trekking and mountaineering in Nepal. Weather is mostly clear and temperature is moderate in these seasons which offer beautiful views without any obstruction. Spring grants you beautiful flowers, plants and rare animals. Walking is favorable during these seasons.

Summer (June - August) and winter (December - February).

Though summer has heavy monsoon rainfall, it is very much clearer to trek around  Upper Mustang Trek , Upper Dolpo Trek and Nar Phu valley Trek since they are rain shadow areas.  Everest Gokyo Trek , Langtang Valley Trek,  Annapurna Base Camp Trek  as well as Nepal Tour Packages are always better to trek in winter season.

Experience & Fitness:

Trekking can be challenging and exhausting. So you might need some fitness training and experience for some tough trial. Nepal Trekking in Everest Base Camp does not require past experience or extreme fitness even though we have more challenging routes in different region compared to that of Everest. Trekking in Himalayas always takes us to challenging altitudes and rocky routes. You could ask for proper rest time and acclimatization to sustain your strength. Mountains can never be achieved in a day. We always provide the detail in our itinerary. However certain training like running, skipping and other workouts will definitely be beneficial in such challenging routes.

Acclimatization:

Altitude sickness is a major risk when trekking. You might experience it on any trails above 2,500 m however; good health, proper care and drinking plenty of water will definitely help you to prevent from altitude sickness. Every trekkers needs to be familiar with the heights and altitude so, for this we have life saving appropriate acclimatization days during the trek, We also provide certain medical support for your relief and emergency rescue through helicopter whenever the situation gets worse.

Eco Friendly:

Our only goal in the Himalayas is to leave the memories and foot prints Himalayan Magic Treks is concerned on environment pollution issue and global warming. We are always serious and genuine about our garbage during the trek especially during camping. We collect the rubbish and dump it to the proper place to protect our environment and also appeal our clients to do the same. We partake in every program conducted in KEEP ( Kathmandu Environmental Education Project ) and other environmental conservation programs. We want to promote Safe environment act and stand against pollution & global warming.

Tailor-Made Itinerary:

Sometimes trekking in the Himalayan region passes through unexpected complication like natural calamity, health challenges and many other problems that might result to the changes of the itinerary. So, we kindly request you to cooperate with your guide and the team in such situation.

Client Reviews

Samantha Mattioli

Natura, aventura e...brindoss.

Siamo stati accolti a braccia aperte da Nabin e il suo team sin dal nostro arrivo in Nepal. Il nostro trek percorreva una parte dell'Annapurna circuit, cucito su misura per noi e le nostre capacità. La nostra guida Krishna è stata eccezionale: ha scelto per noi le migliori camere nei lodge più accoglienti, viziandoci con tante piccole cose e condividendo con noi le tradizioni del luogo. E' stata un'esperienza unica, quando torneremo sceglieremo senza alcun dubbio ancora loro!

Tutto MAGICO

Nabin ed il suo team hanno organizzato per noi un trekking su misura praticamente perfetto. La nostra guida Krishna e i portatori sono stati magnifici, sempre professionali, gentili e disponibili, pronti a soddisfare le nostre necessità e a passare con noi serate in un clima di allegria e.... il resto lo fanno il paesaggio e le persone incontrate

Nabin Karki

Expert - Since: 2004

• Best price guaranteed
• Hassle-Free Booking
• Highly Experienced Team
• Safe Trip Plan

Want To Design Your Own Trip ?

Response Time 0-2 Hours , Response Rate 100%

Related Trips in Annapurna Trekking

Annapurna Base Camp Trek | Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek | Annapurna Circuit Trek | Mardi Himal Trek | Mohare Danda Trek | Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek | Annapurna Royal Trek | Annapurna Panorama Trek | Annapurna Express Trek |

© 2011 - 2024 All rights reserved. Himalayan Magic Treks P.Ltd Developed By : Xenatech Nepal