Disclaimer

All trails are subject to change based on permits from the Nepal Tourism Board, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), and the decisions of the Organizer. The final route will be published one week prior to the event. You will receive your event guide and maps during check-in, where we will also verify that you have the HIGHLANDER route loaded and the map downloaded for offline use. Visorando is our mapping and navigation partner. For instructions on how to download a route and map for offline use in the Visorando app, please visit: https://www.visorando.com/en/article-user-guide-how-to-use-the-app-visorando.html. Regardless of whether you use Visorando or another map and navigation app, you will need to download the HIGHLANDER route GPX file. Please refer to the “Routes” section of the event guide to obtain your GPX file.

Route descriptions

Highlander
5DAY

HIGHLANDER 5 DAYS - Hercules Route: A Classic Annapurna Panorama

Description: This is the ultimate high-altitude adventure for trekkers who want the full Mardi Himal experience. The journey takes you all the way to the stunning Mardi View Point (4,200 m). Trekking in March is especially rewarding, as the lower forests come alive with blooming rhododendrons in shades of red, pink, and white.

As you climb higher, the trail follows dramatic ridgelines and exposed camps such as Mardi High Camp and Badal Danda, where you’re treated to jaw-dropping, close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range under clear spring skies. The trek finishes with a scenic descent through the traditional Gurung village of Landruk, passing near the Modi River Bridge, beautifully connecting alpine wilderness with cultural foothills.

Duration: 5 days

Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Drive Pokhara/Dhampus Phedi (25 Kms). 1 hour drive. Start trek via Dhampus to Pothana (1,900m), Approx 11 Kms.
  • Day 2: Trek to Mardi Low Camp (2,700m) via Badal Danda, 20 Kms.
  • Day 3: Trek to View Point (4,200m) and descend to Mardi High Camp (3,800m), 18 Kms.
  • Day 4: Trek via Deurali & Tolkha to Landruk (1,600m), 18 Kms.
  • Day 5: Trek to Birethati via Modi River Bee-hive, 15 Kms. Finish trek and drive to Pokhara.
Highlander
3DAY

HIGHLANDER 3 DAYS - Pegasus Route: Hot Springs and Himalayan Charm

Description: This shorter loop emphasizes culture and comfort while still delivering classic Himalayan views. After an initial climb to Pitam Deurali, the highlight is reaching the iconic Ghandruk Village (2,000 m). Known for its stone houses and rich Gurung culture, Ghandruk offers breathtaking panoramic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre—all without pushing into extreme altitudes.

March’s pleasant temperatures make the experience even more enjoyable, ending with a gentle descent through Syauli Bazaar to the river valley.

Duration: 3 days

Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Drive to Kande, 1 hour drive. Trek via Australian Camp to Pitam Deurali (2,100m), 12 Kms.
  • Day 2: Trek via Landruk, down to Modi River and trek Ghandruk (2,000m), 18 Kms.
  • Day 3: Trek via Syauli Bazaar to Birethati, 12 Kms. Finish trek and drive to Pokhara.
Highlander
2DAY

HIGHLANDER 2 DAYS - Orion Route: Ghandruk's Heritage and Himalayan Vistas

Description: Ideal for travelers short on time, this route focuses on cultural immersion and relaxed mountain views. Starting from a lower elevation, the trek quickly brings you into the heart of Gurung villages, including Ghandruk, with an overnight stay in Landruk.

You’ll enjoy peaceful village life, warm hospitality, and stunning views of the Annapurna range from comfortable elevations. The final day follows an easy descent to the Modi River valley, making this a perfect option for those who prioritize culture, scenery, and accessibility.

Duration: 2 days

Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Drive to Syauli Bazaar, 2 hours drive. Trek via Ghandruk to Landruk (1,600m), 16 Kms.
  • Day 2: Trek to Birethati via Modi River Bee-hive, 15 Kms. Finish trek and drive to Pokhara.
Highlander
1DAY

HIGHLANDER 1 DAY- Lyra Route: A Taste of the Annapurna Foothills

Description: Perfect for those short on time, this trek offers a quick yet rewarding experience of the Annapurna foothills, covering approximately 8-10 km over 1 days.

Duration: 1 days

Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Drive to Landruk, 2.5 hours’ drive and trek to Dhampus, 5 hours’ trek and 1-hour         drive to Pokhara

TRANSPORT TO THE START

More information on the transport is coming soon.

START

As your safety is our number one priority, we reserve the right to check your equipment at the start. Start times for each format will be added soon.

Campgrounds are open every day starting at 11AM

The HIGHLANDER experience in the Annapurna region is more than just a trek—it's a unique fusion of adventure, community, and Himalayan beauty. Connect with fellow adventurers, share trail stories, and forge lifelong friendships amidst Nepal’s stunning landscapes. Our campsites are thoughtfully selected to highlight the natural splendor of the Annapurna region, from the serene foothills to the majestic views of Poon Hill, providing a safe and comfortable space to recharge after a day on the trail. Bring your tent and gear, and we’ll handle the rest!

Each evening, our campsites come alive with community activities to enrich your adventure, including yoga sessions, educational talks on Himalayan culture and ecology, foot and ankle therapy, astronomy workshops under the clear mountain sky, evening campfires, and live music featuring local Nepali artists. Gather for a hearty community meal, savoring local cuisine, and exchange stories with fellow trekkers under the starlit Himalayan night.

Campsites are open daily from 11 AM. If you arrive early, relax and soak in the breathtaking surroundings before the evening festivities begin. During campsite operating hours, our staff will assist with collecting your passport stamp, refilling water, and providing meals. Collecting all passport stamps is mandatory to earn the HIGHLANDER title. Note: Failure to obtain a stamp at any campsite will result in disqualification from receiving the HIGHLANDER title, pin, patch, or certificate. It is your responsibility to ensure all stamps are collected.

Festivities at the campsites typically conclude by 10 PM, when quiet hours begin. A HIGHLANDER Ranger will remain onsite overnight to ensure your safety. Check-out begins at 6 AM the next morning to prepare for the day’s trek.

HIGHLANDER is dedicated to preserving the pristine Annapurna environment. All events adhere to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring trails and campsites remain unspoiled. Participants will be educated on sustainable trekking practices and encouraged to act as responsible stewards of Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage.

Join your friends and make new ones on this unforgettable adventure in the Annapurna region. The HIGHLANDER Annapurna Trekking Experience awaits you!

Campsite Details: Campsites are subject to change based on permits from the Nepal Tourism Board, Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), and the discretion of the organizer. Confirmed campsites for each route will be listed below once finalized, one week prior to the event.

  • Hercules Route (5 days): Campsites at Pothana, Mardi Low Camp, Mardi High Camp, Landruk and Birethati.
  • Pegasus Route (3 days): Campsites at Pitam Deurali, Gandruk and Birethati.
  • Orion Route (2 days): Campsites at Landruk and Birethati.
  • Lyra Route (1 days): Campsite at Dhampus.

Campsite operating hours for 2026 will be updated soon. For navigation, ensure you have downloaded the HIGHLANDER route GPX file and offline maps via Visorando, as outlined in the event guide.

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