annapurna photo expedition
A photographic journey to Nepal is not just about walking mountain trails, but about immersing yourself in a world of landscapes that look hand-painted, sunrises that awaken the Himalayas, and sunsets that set the sky on fire. Over 18 days, we will explore the legendary Annapurna Circuit, reach the mystical Tilicho Lake, and conclude at the iconic Poonhill — blending nature, culture, and photography at every step.
Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, the city’s vibrant heart. Narrow streets, hidden temples, and bustling markets will give us the first chance to practice urban photography before the adventure begins.
Day 2 | Kathmandu – Dharapani (1910m)
We start early with a private van ride to Besisahar (6–7 hrs), crossing rice terraces and green hills. From there, a local jeep takes us to Dharapani (3 hrs), a village nestled in the Himalayas. Tonight, we stay at our first teahouse, experiencing Nepali mountain hospitality and capturing the essence of village life.
Dates: 13 to 30 of April.
Duration: 18 days and 17 nights.
Price: 1495 euros.
Spots: 12 (9 spots available)
Day 3 | Dharapani – Chame (2670m)
A 5–6 hour hike takes us through pine forests and roaring rivers as the peaks grow closer. Snow-dusted mountains frame the trail, offering countless photo opportunities. We arrive in Chame, where prayer flags wave against the high ridges.
Day 4 | Chame – Upper Pisang (3300m)
We continue for about 5 hours to Upper Pisang, a stone village that feels frozen in time. In the late afternoon, the golden light over Annapurna II and IV will set the perfect stage for landscape photography.
Day 5 | Upper Pisang – Ghyaru – Manang (3540m)
Today we climb to Ghyaru, a natural balcony with some of the best views of the Annapurnas. The 6-hour trek to Manang passes through alpine landscapes, monasteries, and colorful prayer walls. Manang, with its narrow lanes and views of the Gangapurna Glacier, will be our home for the night.
Day 6 | Acclimatization in Manang
A rest day for acclimatization. We can explore the village, photograph its monasteries, or hike to the stunning Ice Lake (4620m).
In the afternoon, we’ll hold our first editing session, sharing techniques and reviewing our images to refine our storytelling.
Day 7 | Manang – Srikharka (4060m)
A steady 4-hour climb takes us to Srikharka. The scenery shifts to higher, more open mountain landscapes, with sharp ridges and dramatic valleys. Later in the day, we’ll have another group editing session, continuing to build skills and style.
Day 8 | Srikharka – Tilicho Base Camp (4140m)
The path becomes narrower and more rugged as we hike 5–6 hours to Tilicho Base Camp. The dramatic cliffs and vast mountain faces will challenge us creatively as photographers.
Day 10 | Srikharka – Yak Kharka (4040m)
One of the highlights of the journey: reaching the world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake. The deep blue waters surrounded by snow-covered peaks are almost otherworldly. Reflections, textures, and silence turn this into a magical photographic experience. We return to Srikharka for the night.
A 4–5 hour trek takes us to Yak Kharka, where we’ll encounter herds of yaks grazing against the dramatic backdrop of the Annapurnas. An ideal day for capturing both wildlife and pastoral life.
Day 9 | Lago Tilicho (4949m)
Day 11 | Yak Kharka – High Camp (4700m)
A shorter hike of 3–4 hours brings us to High Camp, perched at nearly 4700m. Here, the light at sunset is extraordinary—the mountains glowing orange and pink provide a dream setting for evening photography.
Day 12 | Thorung-La Pass (5416m) – Muktinath
The most demanding day: 8–9 hours crossing the legendary Thorung-La Pass, one of the world’s highest trekking passes. Panoramic views of glaciers and endless peaks unfold before us. We descend to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists, where spirituality and photography merge.
Day 13 | Muktinath – Kagbeni – Jomsom (2600m)
A 5-hour hike leads us through arid landscapes and Tibetan-influenced villages. Kagbeni, with its medieval alleys and prayer flags, is a photographer’s delight. We finish in Jomsom. Evening editing session, reviewing the stories captured so far.
Day 14 | Jomsom – Tatopani (2700m)
We take a local bus to Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs—a welcome pause after days of trekking. Here, we can relax while still surrounded by photogenic mountain scenery.
In the afternoon, another editing session to continue polishing our visual narrative.
Day 15 | Tatopani – Ghorepani (2750m)
A 7-hour trek through lush rhododendron forests brings us to Ghorepani. Along the way, we’ll capture the vibrant colors of nature and the simple beauty of traditional villages.
Day 16 | Poonhill Sunrise – Pokhara
Before dawn, we climb to Poonhill (3210m), one of Nepal’s most famous viewpoints. Watching the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges light up with the sunrise is an unforgettable photographic moment. Afterward, we descend to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara, where we’ll enjoy a night by the lakeside.
Day 17 | Pokhara – Katmandú
We return to Kathmandu by private van (7–8 hrs). The journey is a chance to relax, share stories, and prepare for our final evening together in Thamel.
Transfer to the airport for your international flight. Though the expedition ends, the images, skills, and friendships will stay with you forever.
This is not just any trek — it is a photographic expedition, designed to fully experience the mountain while learning, hands-on, how to capture and edit unforgettable images. Moreover, completing the full circuit of the Annapurna massif is more than just a physical challenge: in local tradition, walking the circle is an act of respect and spiritual purification — a 360° journey symbolizing closure, renewal, and a profound connection with the sacredness of the mountain.
This journey demands good physical condition and proper preparation, as each day involves several hours of hiking through mountain terrain and progressive adaptation to the altitude. The reward: experiencing a truly unique adventure surrounded by culture, nature, and breathtaking panoramas that will remain etched in your memory forever.
