Explore remote mountain communities, panoramic Himalayan ridges and the sacred Khayer Lake while trekking through one of Nepal's finest community-based trekking routes
The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Community Trek takes you beyond Nepal’s well-trodden trekking routes and into remote mountain communities, offering an authentic experience of rural Himalayan life. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre and Dhaulagiri ranges, the trek combines snow-capped peaks, ancient rhododendron forests, icy rivers and lush mountain landscapes with meaningful cultural experiences.
While the Annapurna region is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations, the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Community Trek follows quieter trails to off-the-beaten-path villages where you can stay in community lodges and, in some places, experience traditional homestays. These locally managed accommodations provide a more personal connection with mountain communities while ensuring that tourism directly benefits local people.
The journey also offers opportunities to visit a village weaving workshop, paper-making workshop and cheese factory, giving you an insight into traditional skills and local livelihoods. A memorable highlight is spending a night at a yak farming project on the flanks of the Annapurna range.
The high point of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Community Trek, quite literally, is reaching the sacred Khayer Lake (4,500m), surrounded by shrines and overlooked by the towering peaks of the Annapurna range. The trek also offers spectacular views towards Dhaulagiri and an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of the region.
Rated as a moderate community trek with occasional strenuous days, the route requires a reasonable level of fitness. Accommodation is provided primarily in community lodges, which are run by and for the benefit of local communities rather than private teahouses. For travellers seeking adventure, cultural immersion and a deeper connection with rural Nepal, this Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Community Trek offers a rewarding alternative to the region’s more established routes.
Everything you need to know at a glance before your Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Community Trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1 : Trek briefing and preparation day
Day 2 : Fly to Pokhara (30 mins). Drive to Beni (817) approx 3 hours
Day 3 : Trek Beni to Banskharka (1,526m), approx 3-4 hours
Day 4 : Trek Banskharka to Nagi (2,320m), approx 5-6 hours
Day 5 : Trek Nagi – Mohare Danda (3,320m), approx 6 hours
Day 6 : Trek Mohare Dada to Swanta (2,300m), approx 7-8 hours
Day 7 : Trek Swanta to Khopra (3,660m), approx 7-8 hours
Day 8 : Rest day in Khopra or optional day hike to Khyer Lake (4,500m)
Day 9 : Trek Khopra to Paudwar (2,000m), approx 6 hours
Day 10 : Trek Paudwar to Tatopani (1,190m), approx 3 hours
Day 11 : Drive Tatopani to Pokhara, approx 5 hours
Day 12 : Pokhara to Kathmandu: Fly or drive to Kathmandu
Day 13: Departure from Nepal.
Please note: This itinerary is intended as a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail conditions or operational requirements.
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, Trek Briefing and Preparation
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by a member of our team and transferred to your hotel in Kathmandu. After time to relax and recover from your journey, you will attend a detailed trek briefing with your guide. This is an opportunity to discuss the itinerary, check equipment and complete any last-minute preparations before heading into the Himalayas.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 2: Fly or Drive to Pokhara and Continue to Beni (817m) (B L D)
Travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara by domestic flight or scenic drive. After lunch, continue by vehicle to Beni, the gateway to the Myagdi region and starting point of the trek.
The journey follows river valleys and terraced hillsides, offering glimpses of rural Nepal and distant Himalayan peaks. Beni sits on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, one of the world’s deepest river gorges.
Overnight in Beni.
Day 3: Trek Beni to Banskharka (1,526m) | Approx. 3-4 Hours (B L D)
Your trek begins with a gradual ascent through traditional villages and terraced farmland. The trail passes through diverse cultural communities, offering fascinating insights into daily life in the Himalayan foothills.
As you gain elevation, the first views of snow-capped peaks begin to emerge, providing a rewarding introduction to the trek.
Overnight Banskharka
Day 4: Trek Banskharka to Nagi (2,320m) | Approx. 5-6 Hours (B L D)
Today’s trail climbs steadily through forests and rural settlements towards the village of Nagi. This village is widely recognised as the home of Mahabir Pun, the internationally renowned social entrepreneur who pioneered wireless internet connectivity in Nepal’s remote mountain communities.
Stay in a community lodge and learn about local development initiatives, schools and community projects that have transformed life in this remote region.
Overnight in Nagi.
Day 5: Trek Nagi to Mohare Danda (3,320m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
One of the most scenic days of the trek, today’s route passes through beautiful rhododendron forests rich in birdlife and native wildlife. As there are no settlements along the route, packed lunches are carried for the day.
Upon reaching Mohare Danda, you’ll be rewarded with one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in Nepal. Spectacular views stretch across both the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including Dhaulagiri I, Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre and numerous surrounding peaks.
Overnight at Mohare Danda.
Day 6: Trek Mohare Danda to Swanta (2,300m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Enjoy sunrise views over the Himalayas before beginning a long but rewarding day. The trail descends through magnificent rhododendron forests before crossing part of the classic Annapurna Circuit route near Phalate.
Continue through traditional villages and agricultural landscapes before arriving in the peaceful village of Swanta, where you’ll stay in a community-run lodge.
Overnight in Swanta.
Day 7: Trek Swanta to Khopra Ridge (3,660m) | Approx. 7-8 Hours (B L D)
Today’s challenging ascent takes you through dense forests and increasingly alpine terrain towards the spectacular Khopra Ridge.
As you approach the tree line, there may be opportunities to see yaks grazing on high mountain pastures. The reward for your efforts comes upon reaching Khopra, where extraordinary panoramic views unfold across Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Baraha Shikhar, Gurja Himal and surrounding peaks.
Overnight at the community lodge on Khopra Ridge.
Day 8: Rest Day at Khopra or Optional Hike to Khayer Lake (4,500m) (B L D)
Today is reserved for acclimatisation and exploration.
For those seeking an additional challenge, an optional full-day hike leads to the sacred Khayer Lake at 4,500 metres. This remote alpine lake is an important pilgrimage site for local communities and remains largely unknown to international visitors.
The round-trip hike typically takes 10-11 hours and rewards trekkers with breathtaking mountain scenery, remote wilderness and unforgettable views of Annapurna South towering above the lake.
Overnight at Khopra.
Day 9: Trek Khopra to Paudwar (2,000m) | Approx. 6 Hours (B L D)
Begin a long descent through forests and traditional settlements towards Paudwar village.
Throughout the day, enjoy magnificent views over the Dhaulagiri range and the Kali Gandaki Gorge, often described as the deepest gorge in the world. Paudwar is a traditional Magar village of approximately 350 households and offers excellent opportunities to learn about local culture and livelihoods.
You may also visit a community cheese-making project that provides an important source of income for local residents.
Overnight in Paudwar.
Day 10: Trek Paudwar to Tatopani (1,190m) | Approx. 3 Hours (B L D)
Today’s walk descends to the Kali Gandaki River before following the valley to Tatopani, whose name means “hot water.”
After arriving, enjoy a relaxing soak in the famous natural hot springs, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after several days of trekking.
Tatopani is also a lively trading settlement on the Annapurna Circuit route, offering an interesting contrast to the quieter villages visited earlier in the trek.
Overnight in Tatopani.
Day 11: Drive Tatopani to Pokhara | Approx. 5 Hours (B)
After breakfast, travel by road through Beni and along the scenic Kali Gandaki Valley back to Pokhara.
Upon arrival, enjoy a free afternoon to relax beside Phewa Lake, explore the lakeside area or celebrate the completion of your trek.
Overnight in Pokhara.
Day 12: Return to Kathmandu (B)
Return to Kathmandu by domestic flight or scenic drive. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest after your trek.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 13: Departure from Nepal (B)
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight marking the end of your Annapurna & Dhaulagiri Community Trek adventure.
Please note: This itinerary is intended as a guide only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail circumstances, group pace or operational requirements.
MEALS INCLUDED: B – breakfast | L – lunch | D – dinner
Note: All tours are lead by a professional city tour guide
Additional Information
This trek emphasises:
- Respect of the local people
- Respect of their living habits, customs and religion
- Use of local community lodges for lodging and local products for eating
- Protecting the natural and human habitat
Cost Includes
- Pre-trip advice and detailed information
- Expert trip leadership and motivated staff for the duration of the trek
- International & domestic airport transfers in Nepal (where applicable)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Pokhara: 1 night pre-trek & 1-night post-trek
- Transportation to and from trek start and finish for you and your trekking team (different budget options available)
- Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek on a twin sharing basis
- During the trek all meals on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to include tea/coffee during the meals, but excluding any drinks outside of the meal times
- All permits, conservation area, and restricted area fees
- 1 porter for every two people
- Insurance and equipment for Nepali staff
- Rescue assistance
- Group medical kit
Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Kathmandu, Nepal
- Visa for Nepal
- Travel insurance (insurance to include evacuation is mandatory. Please make sure you are covered to the correct altitude)
- Personal expenses such as fizzy drinks, chocolate, gifts, snacks, hot showers etc., during the trek
- Meals unless specified
- Sightseeing
- Gratuities
- Excess baggage on domestic flights
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Himalayan Quests
What to Bring
Himalayan Quests uses a layering system where different pieces of clothing are worn together or separately to achieve optimum body temperature control. The upper body garments listed here are either synthetic or merino wool garments that retain their insulating properties when wet, or nylon or Gore-Tex layers which help prevent heat loss by cutting wind, rain, and snow.
This is a guideline only
| UPPER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| T-Shirts – walking | 2 | We recommend merino wool, Capilene or other synthetic fabric as they wick away the moisture and dry quickly. No cotton. |
| T-shirt – sleeping | 1 | This can be cotton |
| Base layers (ie thermal top) | 1 | Lightweight or mid-weight long-sleeved t-shirt of merino wool, polyester, Capilene, or Polartec power dry |
| Top insulating Layers | 1 | Mid-weight fleece that can be worn over other layers |
| Fleece Vest | 1 | |
| Rain jacket | 1 | |
| Down Jacket | 1 | |
| LOWER BODY LAYERS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Underwear | Sufficient for the trek (remember you can wash them) | |
| Thermal long johns/long underwear | 1 | |
| Trekking Trousers | 2 | Lightweight quick-dry trousers (no cotton). Zip offs are good |
| Evening/sleeping trousers | 1 optional | 1 pair of lightweight tracksuit bottoms (sweat pants) or yoga style trousers for evening wear and sleeping in. No jeans. |
| Hiking Shorts | 1 | If no zip-off trousers. Below the knee for ladies |
| Rain Pants | 1 | |
| PACKS & BAGS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Day pack | 1 | Approx. 35ltrs. HQ will provide you with a duffle bag for your trekking gear |
| Sleeping bag with compression sack | 1 | Minimum 3 season |
| Sleeping bag liner | 1 | Optional |
| FOOTWEAR | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Hiking boots | 1 | Must be well worn and comfortable with ankle support |
| Socks | 3 | |
| Sandals/Camp shoes | 1 | Lightweight for evening use |
| MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS | ||
| Equipment | Quantity | Comments |
| Water bottles | 2 | One liter each, Nalgene or Sig style or a bladder if preferred |
| Water purification drops | 1 | Cheap and easy to buy in Kathmandu (Piyus) |
| Lip Balm | 1 | With SPF factor |
| Sunscreen | 1 | We recommend SPF 30 or greater |
| Mosquito repellent | 1 | |
| Personal first aid kit | 1 | To include any prescribed medications |
| Sunglasses | 1 | |
| Bandana/Buff | 1 | Useful for a variety of purposes. |
| Flashlight /head torch | 1 | Head torch is best as it leaves your hands free + extra batteries |
| Travel towel | 1 | Lightweight and compact |
| Wash kit | Travel size items for the trek & eco friendly if possible | |
| Instant Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Alcohol-based for keeping hands clean |
| Sun hat | 1 | |
| Warm hat | 1 | |
| Gloves | 1 | |
| Trekking poles | Optional | |
| Trekking snacks | Good selection available in KTM | |
| Camera | With charger &/or extra batteries | |
| Toilet paper & rubbish bag | ||
| Book/journal | ||
| Pack of cards/travel game | 1 | For evening entertainment |
| Photocopies of all your important documents | ||
| Compression socks | 1 | Great for international flights & long road/jeep journeys |
| A great sense of humour & a positive attitude | Essential – don’t come without it!! | |
Similar Trips
Trip Photo Stories
FAQs for Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Community Trek
What will the food be like?
There are is a set menu that is used by all of the tea houses along the trek, with such foods as: Breakfast – porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, rice pudding. Lunch/Dinner – dal bhat, pasta, soup, mo mos, eggs, chapati, noodles. Tea and coffee will be served at each meal.
What will the weather be like?
Generally, the weather is warm/hot during the day with the temperatures dipping at night into the early morning. The higher you go, the cooler the temperatures get. During the spring season the minimum night time temperature at Badal Dada / High Camp should be just below freezing, although it will depend on the weather at the time. During the autumn season, traditionally the minimum night time temperature will be below freezing, possibly as low as -5 to -10 degrees Celsius up high. The mountains have their own micro climates, and climate change is impacting the traditional weather patterns and you need to be prepared for all conditions – sun, rain, snow, ice.
Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
Yes. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at the maximum altitude of your chosen route, as well as emergency medical treatment and evacuation where appropriate.
What happens if I get sick or there is an emergency during the trek?
Our guides are trained to respond to common trekking emergencies and will coordinate assistance when necessary. Depending on the location and situation, this may involve rest and observation, descent, evacuation or medical support.
How do I deal with altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatisation in mind, and our guides monitor trekkers throughout the journey. Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace and allowing your body time to acclimatise are important.
Will I be carrying my own gear on the trek? How much luggage can I take on a trek?
You will be provided with a duffle bag for your main trekking gear, which will be carried by a porter. The weight limit per person for this is 10kg. You will just carry your day pack with your personal items for the day.
Is there electricity / WiFi on the trek?
There is only mains electricity at the teahouses on the first and last night, the rest are all solar powered. You are able to charge your phones, camera batteries, however, the teahouse may make a small charge, especially where there is no mains power. Some trekking areas have mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi at certain villages, while remote sections may have little or no connectivity. We recommend being prepared for periods without a reliable signal.
What is the accommodation like on the trek? Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
You will be sleeping in small, simple teahouses along the trek. The rooms are usually twin or triple. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed. Attached bathrooms might only be available on the first and last nights of the trek. Simple beds with a sheet and pillow are provided. A sleeping bag and liner will be provided for you during the trek.
What clothing/gear do I need to bring for the trek?
Please refer to the detailed gear list you have been provided with. Ladies, please make sure any trousers or shorts fall below the knee. Please make sure your walking boots are well worn in and comfortable. Technical gear such as ropes and crampons are not required for this trek, although micro spikes/Yak Trax will be useful if the conditions are snowy/icy up at high camp. These can be bought cheaply (c.£10 a pair) in Nepal.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not necessarily. You don’t need previous trekking experience, but a good level of physical fitness, proper preparation, and the ability to walk for several hours a day are important.
What is the best time of year to trek in Nepal?
The main trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when conditions are generally favourable. There are also some lower-altitude and rain-shadow treks that can be suitable during the monsoon, while winter offers clear skies but colder conditions at higher elevations.
28 Days
Upper Dolpo Region
Strenuous
