Annapurna Base Camp & Upper Mustang Expedition: A 15-Day Journey of Endurance and Inner Awareness

Duration: 15 Days | Dates: November 16-30, 2026 (Clear skies, moderate temperatures) | Trek Difficulty: Moderate

This is not a standard trek. It is a deliberate shift across two entirely different ecosystems. We bridge the dense, glacial sanctuary of Annapurna Base Camp with the arid, high-altitude desert of Upper Mustang.

Through my research in Interoceptive Neuroscience and the practice of IYogaa, we know that moving across extreme altitudes requires more than brute physical strength. It requires biological harmony. Cultivating inner awareness is a core pillar of this journey. We pace the ascent and descent to protect joint integrity, allowing the nervous system to adapt to the dropping oxygen levels of the high Tibetan plateau.

Accessing the Protected Plateau Upper Mustang and the greater Tibetan plateau are strictly protected areas, highly regulated to preserve their fragile ecosystems and ancient traditions. We secure all necessary restricted area permits, legal clearances, and securities on your behalf, ensuring seamless and protected entry into these exclusive regions.

Led by Dr. Nitasha Buldeo — Research Scientist, Doctor of Natural Medicine, and Yogi.

Your Path Unveiled: A Detailed Itinerary

Phase 1: The Ascent On our drive from Kathmandu toward the trailhead, we pause at key sites of high energy, such as the sacred Manakamana Temple. These locations serve as thresholds, allowing us to align our internal environment and center our awareness before the physical work begins. We then move up through dense bamboo forests and steep stone staircases to the apex of Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).

Phase 2: Controlled Recovery Instead of a punishing one-day drop, we execute a paced, two-day descent to Jhinu Danda. We use natural hot springs to accelerate muscle recovery before the environment shifts.

Phase 3: The High Desert We transition to our vehicles, climbing into the lower Mustang gorge. We hold at Kagbeni to acclimatize, allowing the body to adjust before pushing into the walled city of Lo Manthang (3,840m).

Phase 4: The Walled City & Return We explore the ancient caves and monasteries of the Tibetan plateau before descending through the apple orchards of Marpha and returning to Pokhara.

Day 15: Return to Kathmandu & Departure

Enjoy a final Nepali breakfast in Pokhara before your flight back to Kathmandu. Depending on your schedule, there may be time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a final spiritual stop before your international departure.

Important Considerations:

  • Physical Fitness: This is a moderate trek, requiring good physical fitness. Prepare for daily 5-8 hours of walking over varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents.
  • Altitude Sickness (AMS): Our itinerary allows for gradual acclimatization to the 4,130m altitude at ABC. Dr Buldeo & our Doctor and Guides will monitor your health and ensure a safe pace.
  • Permits: All necessary permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP), TIMS card, and the special restricted area permit for Mustang, are included and will be arranged for you.
  • Accommodation: Expect simple Zen comfortable mountain lodges or temperature regulated tents  during the ABC trek, offering warmth, hospitality and delicious local food.
  • Guidance: Our knowledgeable local monks, Gurkha forces, and guides will not only assist with logistics but also offer profound insights into local spiritual practices and traditions.
  • Packing: Pack appropriate layers for varying temperatures, quality hiking boots, waterproof outer layers, and warm clothing. Don’t forget personal spiritual items for reflection.
  • Flexibility & Respect: Be prepared for slight itinerary adjustments due to weather or trail conditions. Always show respect for local customs, traditions, and religious sites.

The Investment

£2,995 per person*

This covers your physical and logistical requirements so you can focus entirely on the movement and your internal environment. It includes:

  • Permits & Clearances: Full legal entry, securities, and restricted access permits for both the protected Upper Mustang region and the Annapurna Sanctuary.

  • Transport: Private, luxury, fully insured transportation throughout the journey, including dedicated 4×4 vehicles for the Mustang region and your domestic flight back to Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation: Bed & breakfast at premium hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

  • Nutrition: Full board (three meals a day) during the trek and desert phases. In Kathmandu & Pokhara we offer Bed & Breakfast, allowing you to sample local cuisine of your choice for lunch and dinner.

  • Guidance & Support: Fully licensed and insured guidance for the duration of the journey. You will be supported by a dedicated team of porters to carry your luggage, alongside the unmatched ground coordination and security of our Gurkha force friends on the trail.

Note on Nutrition: The teahouses easily support a clean, plant-based or gluten-free framework. If you require specific proteins, we will provision these prior to departure to ensure your physical reserves remain intact.

*Does Not Include: International flights to Kathmandu, Nepal Visas (please check requirements based on your citizenship).

This trek is more than just a journey; it’s a profound experience of self-discovery amidst the majestic Himalayas, blending physical challenge with deep spiritual immersion.

Are you ready to answer the call of the Himalayas and embark on this life-changing spiritual adventure?

Bookings

Bookings are closed for this event.