Gangapurna Expedition is one of the adventurous activities to do in Nepal. It is 7,455m and one of the beautiful mountains in the Annapurna region. Gangapurna pinnacle is situated between Annapurna III and Tilicho Peak. It is Northeast of Mt. Annapurna at the furthest edge of Grand Barrier to Tilicho Peak on the shoulder stretching out around 10-12km from Annapurna straightforwardly east of ROC Noir. Gangapurna is the 57th highest mountain on earth.

About The Gangapurna Expedition

Gangapurna expedition is one of the difficult and challenging peaks perfect for experienced climbers. We have fixed three upper camps (Cam 1, Camp 2, and Camp 3) to summit the Gangapurna climb. It takes 2-4 hours to reach base camp from Manang. From top of Gangapurna magnificent views of Manaslu, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Chulu West Peak, Chulu East Peak, and other surrounding high peaks. Mt. Gangapurna was first climbed in 1965 by a German expedition led by Günther Hauser, via the East Ridge.

The trekking routes from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar then walk to Chame continues to Manang than the base camp of Gangapurna. Nowadays there are routes directly to Manang however we have recommended driving from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar continues to Chame and two days walk to Manang. Explore the rich Buddhist culture, traditional villages, the breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of mountains on the Trans-Himalayan route. After summit Gangapurna, there are options either come the same way to Besi Sahar or you can trek over the high pass Thorong la. The adventure trip of Mount Gangapurna Expedition is considered very difficult and challenging with lots of snow and several technical sections. Gangapurna Expedition is a perfect opportunity for adventure-seeking climbers. To gain an ultimate climbing experience of the popular as well as fascinating Mt Gangapurna for lifetime achievement. 

Day 1 Drive from Kathmandu Valley to Chamje

You will take a drive from Kathmandu along the banks of Trishuli River for a couple of hours and then along the banks of Marsyangdi River. The drive is over scenic zigzag hilly roads passing through Besisahar, you will drive towards Chamje – the starting point of the trek and Gangapurna Expedition. During today’s long drive you will have the opportunity to see the daily survival activities of local people as we pass along numerous roadside market towns and villages.

Day 2 Chamje to Dharapani

The pre-climbing trek starts from Chamje, you will cross a suspension bridge and start uphill trekking to reach Sattale – which marks the narrowest section of the valley. The trail goes along densely forested areas filled with rhododendron trees and beautiful terraced farmlands. You will arrive at a broad flat-bottom valley and to the village of Tal, which marks the official entry to Manang District. The trail from Tal is a descent journey to cross a suspension bridge over Marsyangdi river before arriving at Karte village. Trekking continues until you arrive at the Gurung village of Dharapani.  

Day 3 Dharapani to Chame

Leaving Dharapani, you will trek on a trail that is largely affected by the landslide area. You will pass through a village school where you might be greeted by school students who are always happy to see foreigners. The trail is gradual uphill trekking through forest areas towards the typical Tibetan styled village of Bagarchhap. From here you trek along the left bank of the river towards Koto. Koto is the gateway to popular ‘Nar Phu Valley Trekking’. An easy trek from Koto will lead us to Chame. Chame is the main administrative centre of Manang District, with an abundance of shops and teahouses.    

Day 4 Chame to Pisang

From Chame, you will follow the trail that heads west along the river banks towards Bharatang. From there you will continue trekking along the banks of Marsyangdi River and then cross a suspension bridge before making a climb to reach Dhukur Pokhari. The trail gradually opens up as you continue your trek, surrounded by magnificent snow-capped peaks after an hour’s trek from Dhukur Pokhari we will arrive at Pisang. Magnificent views of Pisang Peak and Annapurna II can be seen from Pisang. 

Day 5 Pisang to Manang

Today you will follow the trail that introduces you to alpine landscape and harsh vegetation. Passing through Upper Pisang, the trek continues with incredible views of surrounding high peaks towards Manang. On the way, you will pass through Braga Monastery (largest monastery of the entire Manang District) – paying a visit to the monastery at Braga is definitely worth it. Manang is well reputed for its rich culture and traditions. Besides, you will get the opportunity to experience the traditional lifestyle of the local Manangi people while you are at Manang.

Day 6 Acclimation day at Manang

Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness and to ensure a successful summit climb of Mt. Gangapurna. Hence, today you will take a rest day for acclimatization and exploration around Manang. The village of Manang dates back to hundreds of years and local people still practice the traditional culture and tradition which is truly remarkable. Besides, Manang has several good day acclimatization hikes to offer to its visitors. However, a hike up to Bhojo Gompa or Gangapurna Lake will be worth visiting for best acclimatization and exploration around Manang.

Day 7 Manang to Gangapurna Base Camp

From Manang, you follow the trail that is a gradual ascent trekking all the way to  campsite at Gangapurna Base Camp at 4600 meters. The journey follows harsh alpine vegetation, beautiful Juniper and Pine filled forests. Along the route, you will explore beautiful glacier lake Gangapurna.  As you enter into the higher altitudes through rocky ridges with good views of high mountain valleys and surrounding peaks finally reach your campsite. 

Day 8 – 26 Climbing period of Mount Gangapurna

You will spend several days for preparation, climbing training and acclimatization with altitudes.  The experienced Sherpa team members will do all the hard work from setting up the camps at higher altitudes to serving hygienic and healthy meals. Fully equipped with all the necessary climbing gears and properly acclimatized, we will follow the instructions and guidance given by our experienced climbing experts and climb to reach the summit of Mt. Gangapurna. After tackling several technical climbing sections we head towards the mount summit. Our tiring and much awaited climb to the summit of Mt Gangapurna is rewarded with magnificent views of Annapurna range & Dhaulagiri Mountain ranges including Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak and other snow-capped mountains. We will spend quality time at the summit and then safely descend following the same route back to Base Camp. 

Day 27 Base Camp to Yak Kharka

After achieving the lifetime experience of successful Mt. Gangapurna Expedition, today we begin our return journey by following gentle descends before reaching Khangsar, a beautiful village. After Khangsar, we follow the smooth scenic trail that takes us to reach our overnight stop at Yak Kharka. 

Day 28 Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

The route will take you towards the Thorong Phedi. Thorong Phedi is the base camp of the prestigious Thorong La Pass in Manang. From Yak Kharka, you will start your walk towards Thorong Phedi early in the morning. At the beginning of your walk, you will have to  ascend steep downhill before you start your ascent up to the river. Along the trail, you can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorong Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. Once we reach Thorang Phedi, we will take a walk around the area.

Day 29 Cross Thorong La Pass towards Muktinath

This is the trekking route from the Phedi to the Thorong La Pass. The trail is steep climb and easy to follow. However, problems may occur due to the altitude and snow which can often make the crossing impossible if the pass is covered by snow. It takes about four hours to climb up to the pass marked by chortens and prayer flags. As you reach the top, you will be rewarded by the magnificent view of the entire terrain from the top.

Day 30 Muktinath to Jomsom

Muktinath is one of the most important sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindu as well as Buddhists pilgrims. Travellers begin their day with a visit to Muktinath temple. From here you can appreciate the wonderful perspectives on Dhaulagiri.  There are water gushes which channel into the stream running over the sanctuary. There is additionally a Buddhist Monastery close by.  From here a path slides through the town of Jharkot where you can investigate the Jharkot religious community; this is both a Tibetan homegrown clinical focus and an old post. The hike proceeded back to Jomsom . The perspectives on the Kali Gandaki valley and Kagbeni town en route are genuinely overpowering. We pass by Ekle Bhatti and lastly show up at Jomsom.

Day 31 Jomsom to Pokhara

The travellers will take a flight back to Pokhara.  The remaining afternoon can be spent exploring the beautiful landscapes, lakes and hills of the city. You can also roam around the market area of the Pokhara in the night and get yourself immersed in the limelight of the city.

Day 32 Pokhara to Kathmandu

It is time to bid farewell to the Pokhara valley and take a bus ride back to the Kathmandu valley. You can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, river valleys and clear sky through the window of the bus before reaching the city.