On our first day, we will travel from the capital city towards western Nepal. Along the way, we'll make several stops to discover various sites of natural, cultural, and historical significance. We'll enjoy views alongside the Trishuli, Marshyangdi, Seti, and Gandaki rivers, with our destination being the charming hillside town of Baglung.

If weather permits, we’ll awaken to the same stunning view that greeted the French Expedition on April 16th, 1950. Just like Francis de Noyelle, the interpreter and transport officer, who excitedly shouted, “Dhaulagiri! Dhaulagiri!” waking everyone in a rush—many of whom forgot to dress properly. Don’t worry; you can ask your guide to refrain from waking you with such enthusiasm, and we’ll do our best to accommodate that. After breakfast, we’ll drive to Tukuche, which will serve as our base camp for the upcoming days.

Today, we'll embark on a short hike to a higher altitude, retracing one of the paths that the French Expedition took. We'll compare photographs, old maps, and relive their stories. We'll climb early to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and return to Tukuche for a restful evening.

This will be a relatively easy day, but we'll aim to sleep at a slightly higher altitude. We'll pack our camping gear and find a suitable ridgeline to camp. Our goal is to help you acclimate further and experience the valley differently by enjoying a sunset, stars and sunrise from a higher vantage point. If the weather doesn't cooperate, don't worry - we have a contingency plan in place

After enjoying coffee and breakfast on the hill, we'll walk back to Tukuche following our overnight hike. After a brief rest and repacking our bags, we will drive to Jomsom for the night.

“The French Annapurna expedition faced a significant challenge: navigating the uncharted terrain of the Nepalese Himalayas. But a glimmer of hope was a reference of a mysterious pass, Tilicho pass in the old british map, but locals they talked seem unfamiliar with the pass. Finally, the team found the guidance of a local hunter who claimed to know the path. Not super convinced, a few expedition members still decide to.”

Today, we embark on a journey to retrace the steps of these explorers. Our first stop will be Kaisang and next to Chauri Kharka, where we will camp for the night.”

Today, we embark on the most challenging day of our trek. Leaving camp at dawn, we'll ascend steeply eastward toward the pass. The climb will take approximately 5-6 hours. Our destination is Tilicho Lake, the highest lake in Nepal. After circumnavigating the lake, we'll descend to its outlet, the source of the Marsyangdi River. This journey will take around 8-10 hours, culminating in our arrival at Tilicho High Camp. The French expedition of 1950 harbored great hopes for Tilicho Pass. They believed it would offer a promising route to the summit of Annapurna I. However, as recounted by Maurice Herzog, the team's confidence waned as they approached the pass. Did they ultimately achieve their goal? That remains a question for exploration.

Today's trek offers a welcome respite with a relatively short and easy descent to Yak Kharka. We'll soon rejoin the well-traveled Annapurna Circuit route, which will lead us to the iconic Thorang La Pass. Along the way, we'll pass through the ruins of the ancient Khangsar village and follow a trail that winds down to an old bridge crossing the river between Gumsang and Yak Kharka. This journey offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by early explorers who lacked the modern trail infrastructure. We'll also explore the geological formations that have shaped this remarkable region.

Today's trek offers a welcome respite with a relatively short and easy descent to Yak Kharka. We'll soon rejoin the well-traveled Annapurna Circuit route, which will lead us to the iconic Thorang La Pass. Along the way, we'll pass through the ruins of the ancient Khangsar village and follow a trail that winds down to an old bridge crossing the river between Gumsang and Yak Kharka. This journey offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by early explorers who lacked the modern trail infrastructure. We'll also explore the geological formations that have shaped this remarkable region

Today, we'll trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via the Thorong La Pass, one of the world's highest. The views are amazing, but the altitude will be tough. We'll descend to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. Don't forget to see the 108 stone water taps and the eternal flame

In keeping with Hindu and Buddhist tradition, we'll rise early to visit the temple once more. Some of us may even partake in the sacred ritual of bathing under all 108 holy taps. After breakfast, we'll set off for Marpha. Following lunch, we'll return to our base in Tukuche. For those who prefer, a cycling option is available.

For those who are completing their journey here - we will drive you back to Pokhara. For those who have also signed up for both chapters on the extended trip to North Annapurna Base Camp, we will spend an extra day in Tukuche. We'll use this time to rest, learn about the French expedition's decisions, and prepare for our journey to North Annapurna Base Camp - a less traveled route compared to the famous South Base Camp.