Pisang Peak Climbing [6,091 meters/ 19,983 ft] | 24 Days

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu Airport 1,350 meters (4,429 ft), transfers to hotel.

Representatives from Himalayan Diamond Adventures will greet you upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will be welcomed with a fresh flower garland, a traditional Nepali greeting, and then escorted to the hotel for bed and breakfast service. The drive from the airport to the hotel takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, if there is no traffic jam on our way. After checking into the hotel, we will have a short refreshment meeting at the hotel. In the evening, the company will host a welcome dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant, complete with a cultural dance performance, to celebrate the start of your trip. During the dinner, your guide will provide a brief overview of the schedule for the following day.

Day 02: Today is the day to prepare our climbing gear for the ascent.

Today is the final hour of our trip preparation day. If you are not well-equipped, it is a good idea to gather climbing gear before departing for a mountain trip.

There are many shops in Thamel Bazaar that sell trekking gear and equipment, where you can purchase everything, you need, or rent it. If you decide to rent, you will need to leave a deposit at the trekking shop.

Day 03: A scenic bus journey to Chame 2,670 meters (8,760bft), about 250 kilometers, 10 to 11hrs.

A scenic bus ride from Kathmandu through Besishahar will take us to Chame, the headquarters of Manang district. The journey begins on the highly busy Prithibi highway and then links to the Beshisahar- Annapurna circuit trail Manang. Along the way, we can enjoy splendid views of the mountain terrain, including the Ganesh Himal range, Baudha Himal, Rani peak, Himalchuli ranges, Ngadichuli, and Manasalu. Besides the majestic Himalayas, we can also see many beautiful perennial rivers, tributaries, captivating waterfalls, rolling green hills, subtropical forests, cultivated terraced lands, and colorful villages. After a 10 to 11-hour journey, we can stay overnight at a lodge in Chame.

Day 04: Trek to Pisang village 3,200 meters (10,498ft), 4 hours of comforting walk.

Today, we have two options to reach Pisang, an ancient Tibetan Buddhist inhabited village. One is to walk along the newly opened road, and the other is to take a jeep. If we take a jeep, we can reach there within 30 to 45 minutes, while walking will take us about 4 hours. However, our trail follows the narrow Marsyangdi river valley, providing stunning views of the enormous cliffs, including a superb view of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. As we leave the treeline, we will pass through large apple gardens, and the trail gradually ascends towards a place with a more prominent snowline.

Before reaching Pisang Village, we will be greeted with an iconic view of Pisang Peak, and Chulu East can be seen in the distance. After reaching Pisang, we can hike to Upper Pisang to gain altitude and enjoy breathtaking views, including mesmerizing views of Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters), and Annapurna III (7,555 meters).

Day 05: Trek to Manang 3,540 meters (11,614 ft), along the upper viewing way, 8hrs.

Our destination today is Manang, a Tibetan Gurung village. The people of this Manang valley originally migrated from Tibet in the past. To reach Manang, we will take the upper panoramic viewing trail, which comprises isolated and peaceful villages like Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Chulu. At Pisang village, we will cross the Marsyangdi River over suspension bridges and then ascend to Ghyaru, a Tibetan primitive village. The uphill trail offers superb views of the Pisang valley behind us, including the majestic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho. On a clear day, we will have truly breathtaking views. Although the upper trail is quite challenging, it is a rewarding trail as we trek through these ancient lands and sight Buddhist stupas, Buddhist Mani walls, and monasteries.

Day 06: Acclimatization Day,  Explore Milarepa cave or take a hike Ice Lake or Gangapurna Lake:

Today is our acclimatization day, which is crucial after rapidly ascending in the mountains. We will rest at the same elevation to help our bodies adjust. On this day, we have the option to explore some interesting places around Manang Valley, such as the Marshyangdi River and Gangapurna Lake. Alternatively, we can hike up to Deurali (4,200 meters) for splendid views of Chulu West Peak and Chulu East (also known as Manang Himal), or take a side trip to Milarepa Cave or Ice Lake. Hiking up to Ice Lake offers delightful views of the wide Manang valley, Tilicho Valley, and the massive Annapurna Himalaya range while also aiding in altitude acclimatization. There are plenty of choices for tourists, and it would be great to have more days to explore the Manang Valley.

Day 07: Trek to Tilicho Base Camp 4,200 meters (13,779 ft), 7/8 hours.

Our destination for today is Tilicho Base Camp. The journey begins by following the Thorong La pass trail and passing through Manang village. In no time, the trail separates towards Tilicho Base Camp, offering breathtaking landscapes with glorious mountain views. Along the way, we will pass by mani walls, cultivated farmlands, suspension bridges, a monastery, some villages and lodges. Additionally, we may even catch sight of wild animals. The trail will cross a steep scree rockfall slope to reach Tilicho Base Camp. Although the trail is quite challenging, it rewards us with spectacular backdrop views.

Day 08: Trek to Tilicho Lake 4,990 m (16,371 ft) and back to base camp, walk 6 hours.

Today, we will start hiking before sunrise at around 6 am to avoid the strong afternoon winds. Leaving Tilicho Base Camp, the trail gradually rises up to Tilicho Lake, offering magnificent backdrop views of Mt. Manaslu, Ngadi Chuli, Peak 29, Mt. Kanggaru, Pisang Peak, Annapurna Himalaya Range, and several other mountains. In fact, Tilicho Lake is regarded as the world's highest lake with its unique color. Once we've taken in the mesmerizing views of Tilicho Lake and its surroundings, we will retrace our steps along the same trail back to Tilicho Base Camp.

Day 09: A fabulous Tilicho lake trip heading back to Manang 3,540 meters (11,614 ft).

After taking in the mesmerizing views of Tilicho Lake and its surroundings, we will retrace our steps along the same trail back to Manang, which is located at 3,540 meters (11,614 ft) above sea level, in order to continue our climbing trip. During the day, we will enjoy great views and a relaxing trek.

Day 10: Trek to Pisang base camp 4,380 m (14,370 ft), 4 hrs. Stay at tented camp:

From Pisang village, the trail continues to climb uphill towards the base camp at an altitude of 4,380 meters (14,370 ft), offering a bird's eye view of the surrounding area. Throughout the day, the landscape is dominated by panoramic views of the Annapurna Himalayan range, including Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Lamjung Himal, Manang Himal, Tilicho Peak, and other mountains. As there is no human shelter beyond Pisang village, we will spend the night at a tented camp. Our cook and kitchen staff will prepare meals for us at the base camp, along with hot drinks

Day 11: Hike to high camp to 5,400 m (17,716 ft) and back to base camp.

After leaving high camp, the path gradually ascends on an alpine meadow, rock slabs, and scree slopes, which can be tiring day. However, we are rewarded with a superb and splendid view of the Annapurna Himalaya Ranges, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhare, Tilicho, and many other mountains, along with an enchanting view of the Manang-Tilicho Valley. After reaching high camp, we will return to the base camp. However, our climbing guide and high-altitude Sherpa will go up to Japanese camp to open the track and put fixed line ropes on a slab of rock. This makes it easier for us to climb and ensures a 100% chance of reaching the summit tomorrow.

Day 12: Move to High camp 5,200 m (17,060 ft), 3 hours. Stay in tented camp:

After breakfast, we will trek to high camp through yak grazing land during the summer season. After walking for three hours, we will continue up the trail and reach an elevation of 5,200 meters (17,060 ft), which is a good place for camping. However, there is a shortage of water, so we will either melt snow or carry water from the base camp. In the evening, we will meet our guide and high-altitude climbing Sherpa at the high camp and make a plan and prepare for tomorrow's climb

Day 13: Attempt the summit 6,091 meters (19,983 ft), and climb back to base camp.

Today is the most adventurous and exciting day as we climb up to the wonderful top of Pisang Peak. We will wake up early in the morning at around 1:00 am for tea and a light breakfast. We will leave for the summit at 2:00 am in the dawn with headlamps. We will have to scramble on rock slabs with the support of guide ropes, and finally, we will climb steep rock slabs and snow walls with the support of fixed line ropes to attempt the peak. It will be quite a challenging day, but the summit will offer us unparalleled beauty. From an altitude of 6,091 meters (19,983 ft), we will savor 360-degree mesmerizing views of the Annapurna Himalayan Range, Lamjung, Manasalu, Kangaru Himal, Himlung, Manang Himal, Tilicho Himal, the Tibet border Himalaya, along with captivating views of Nar-Phu and Manang Valley. After taking pictures at the summit, we will climb back down to the base camp.

Day 14: Contingency day

This is a trekking peak, so we have to climb it while trekking. However, there is no guarantee of favorable weather on our planned summit day, so we need to have some spare days in case we encounter bad weather. Therefore, we have a reserved day for a possible second attempt.

Day 15: The trek continues to Manang 3,540 m (11,614 ft), 9 hours. Stay overnight in lodge.

After a successful climbing trip, we will trek towards Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters to reach the Mustang Kaligandaki River valley. Starting from Pisang village, we will trek to Manang, an old Tibetan village that is currently inhabited by the Gurung people, who originally came from Tibet. Along the way, we will take the upper panoramic trekking routes such as Gyaru, Ngawal, and Chulu, while enjoying breathtaking views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, and Manang Himal. We will also come across large Buddhist Chortens (stupas), Buddhist Mani, and monasteries that add to the cultural experience of the trek.

Day 16: Trek to Chuli Ledar 4,200 meters (13,779 ft), 5 hours gently uphill trail. Stay at the lodge:

Today, the trail will gradually ascend towards Tengki Manang, offering fine views of Manang village behind us, the crystal clear Marsyangdi river, and the greenish-blue Gangapurna Lake. We will continue trekking from the Marsyangdi River valley to Chuli Ledar Lodge, passing through the summer Yak grazing lands of Yak Kharka. The views are breathtaking with the Annapurna range and the snowy Tilicho Mountain beyond the Manang Himal. While trekking to the Thorong La pass, we might even spot some rare wildlife such as Snow leopards, Blue sheep, and Himalayan griffons on the way. After about 5 hours of relaxing and spectacular trekking, we will reach the Chuli Ledar Lodge, which is located at the base of the Chulu West peak.

Day 17: Push to Thorong High Camp 4,925 meters (16,158ft), 3 to 4 hours of relaxing walk.

Today is a relaxing day for us before we tackle the high pass of Thorong La at 5,416 meters. Our journey will begin by following a narrow and slightly inclined trail that crosses the suspension bridge over Kone Khola at the corners of Phedi. Along the way, we may come across rock fall zones and frozen streams during winter. Before we start climbing up, we will reach New Phedi, which overlooks the grazing lands of yaks and blue sheep. At the base of the High Camp, there are some tea houses where we can stop to eat and recharge our energy before the steep climb. From there, we will ascend uphill to the High Camp primitive lodge. The ascent can be challenging, but the stunning landscape makes it all worthwhile. At the High Camp, there is a small viewpoint that offers a substantial view of Chulu West trekking peak, which stands at 6,419 meters. Chulu West is a popular trekking peak in the Annapurna classic circuit trekking route.

Day 18: Trek out before the sunlight comes up to cross the Thorong La pass at 5,416 me , descend to Muktinath at 3,760 m.

Today, we will wake up early in the morning, around 5:00 A.M., and have a light, warm breakfast with a cup of tea. After breakfast, we will begin our ascent of the popular Thorong La pass at an altitude of 5,416 meters. The trail from High Camp gradually climbs the mountainside and after 3 to 4 hours, we will reach the pass, which is indicated by prayer flags and stone cairns. Note that the pass is usually snowbound during the winter season (mid-December to late February).

After enjoying the outstanding views from the highest pass of the Annapurna region, we will begin our descent to Muktinath. The trail steadily drops to Phedi, which is located at the bottom of the hill. Along the way, we will have wide, superb views of the Mustang valley and the eye-catching Khatungkang peak, which stands at 6,484 meters (21,273ft).

We will continue descending for 2 to 3 hours before stopping at Phedi for a hot lunch and some relaxation time. Afterward, we will resume our descent towards Muktinath, a holy shrine revered for salvation and spiritual fulfillment. Muktinath is a beautiful holy town.

Day 19: Trek to Jomsom 2,720 meters (8,923ft) 7 hours of a downhill walk with a splendid dry landscape to Kaligandaki.

Finally, we will trek down to the base of the Kali Gandaki River, passing through Jharkot and Kagbeni, which serve as the main entry gateways to the Upper Mustang Valley. As we trek down, we will be treated to breathtaking views of cultivated lands, hills, Tilicho, and Nilgiri, providing an unforgettable trekking experience. After sightseeing in Kagbeni village, we will continue our trek to Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang district, following the Kaligandaki River. After 7 to 8 hours of trekking from Muktinath, we will finally reach the windy valley of Jomsom, one of the best tourist destinations in Nepal.

Day 20: Scenic flight; Jomsom to Pokhara 30 minutes 820 meters (2,690ft) transfer to hotel.

Early in the morning, we will take a 30-minute scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara, which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Nilgiri (7,060 meters), Annapurna South (7,219 meters), Machhapuchhre (6,997 meters), and other stunning mountains. Alternatively, we can take a Jeep from Jomsom to Beni and then travel by micro bus from Beni to Pokhara to reach our destination in a single day. We will spend the night at a lodge in Pokhara.

Day 21: We will have a Pokhara valley tour.

We will spend the full day exploring the beautiful Pokhara valley, visiting popular attractions such as the Peace Stupa, David Falls, and the International Mountain Museum. These sights offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cultural insights into the local communities. We will have plenty of time to take photos, learn about the history and significance of each site, and enjoy the natural beauty of Pokhara. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

Day 22: Drive back to Kathmandu 1,350 meters (4,429ft), 6 to 7hours by tourist bus and transfer to hotel

After the unforgettable Annapurna Circuit Classic Trek, we will take a scenic 6-hour bus journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu. In the evening, we will organize a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. Alternatively, you may choose to take a short flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu for a more convenient travel option.

Day 23: Departure to Home.

As per your international flight checking time, we will drop you off to the international airport and see you off.

Note: that the outlined itinerary is designed for those who prefer a full package service. However, we understand that preferences and time constraints may vary, so we offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary according to your needs. The selection of itineraries and staff will be based on your specific requirements and budget. Additionally, we have options available for partial visits to accommodate your preferences and financial situation.