Annapurna South Expedition (7,219 m)

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, your first step will be to complete the immigration and visa process. Here’s a quick guide to obtaining your Nepal visa:

Visa on Arrival: Available at TIA and major land borders. Fill out an arrival card, submit your passport (valid for at least 6 months), and pay the visa fee:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days: USD 125

Online Application: To save time, apply online up to 15 days before arrival. Visit Nepal Immigration to complete the form.

Visa at Embassies: Alternatively, you can apply at a Nepalese embassy in your home country before traveling.

Extensions: If you plan to extend your stay, you can extend your visa at immigration offices within Nepal. Fees start at USD 45 for 15 days.

After completing the visa process, proceed to the security scanning area for your belongings. Then, move to the luggage collection area to retrieve your checked bags. Once you have your luggage, head toward the exit area.

At the exit, you’ll find a designated waiting area, where people gather to greet arriving passengers. Step outside the terminal, and you’ll see our team holding a sign with your name and the Luxury Holidays Nepal board. This ensures a smooth pick-up process. From this point, our team will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your designated hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

On your second day in Kathmandu, take time to rest and prepare for the exciting expedition ahead. This day allows you to recover from your journey, acclimatize to the local environment, and finalize any last-minute preparations.

You can use this time to check your gear, purchase or rent any missing items, and ensure that all your climbing and trekking equipment meets the necessary requirements. Your guide will be available to assist with gear checks and answer any questions you may have.

For those interested, this day is also an opportunity to explore Kathmandu’s rich cultural heritage. You may visit nearby attractions such as Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, or Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple).

In the evening, relax and mentally prepare for the journey as you review the itinerary and get ready to embark on your adventure in the Annapurna region.

The day begins with an early morning departure from Kathmandu for a scenic drive to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, and the starting point of your trekking adventure. The journey, lasting approximately 9 hours, takes you along winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking views of lush valleys, terraced fields, and distant Himalayan peaks.

As you ascend through diverse landscapes, you’ll pass charming villages and cross suspension bridges over roaring rivers, giving you a glimpse into the rural life of Nepal. The route also traverses the famous Besisahar, where the Annapurna Circuit traditionally begins, and continues along rugged paths toward higher altitudes.

Upon arrival in Chame (2,710m), settle into your accommodation, enjoy a warm meal, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. This marks the gateway to the Annapurna region, and the excitement for the trek ahead begins to build. Rest well, as your trekking journey officially begins the next day.

Your trekking adventure begins as you leave Chame and follow the trail toward Pisang, a picturesque village nestled at 3,200 meters. The trek takes you through a mix of lush forests, steep river valleys, and small traditional settlements.

The route winds along the Marshyangdi River, crossing suspension bridges and ascending gradually through pine and fir forests. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and other nearby peaks. The trail also passes through small settlements like Bhratang, where you can experience local culture and traditions.

As you approach Pisang, the landscape begins to open up, offering dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and the wide valley below. Once you arrive in Pisang, you’ll settle into your tea house, enjoy a hot meal, and relax amidst the tranquil beauty of this Himalayan village. Prepare to acclimatize further as you ascend in the days ahead.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization in the beautiful village of Manang, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing altitude and prepare for the higher elevations ahead. Proper acclimatization is crucial to minimizing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and ensuring a successful expedition.

While resting is important, staying active with light activities is the best way to acclimatize. You can explore the village and its surroundings, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the local Tibetan-influenced community. Highlights include visiting the Bodzo Gompa, interacting with friendly locals, and learning about their traditions.

For a more active option, consider hiking to the Gangapurna Lake (3,900m) or taking a short hike to the Viewpoint above Manang, which offers breathtaking panoramas of Gangapurna, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Tilicho Peak. Another popular trek is to the Ice Lake (4,600m), a challenging but rewarding hike that provides excellent acclimatization benefits.

After exploring, return to your tea house to rest and enjoy a warm meal. Use the evening to hydrate, relax, and mentally prepare for the upcoming higher altitudes and colder temperatures as you continue your journey.

Today’s trek takes you from Manang to the serene alpine pasture of Yak Kharka, situated at an altitude of 4,050 meters. The trail ascends gradually, offering incredible views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and arid landscapes.

As you leave Manang, the vegetation becomes sparser, reflecting the transition to a higher-altitude environment. The trail follows the Marshyangdi River, passing through small settlements like Tengi and Gunsang, where you may encounter yaks grazing and locals tending to their herds. The trail involves moderate ascents and crosses suspension bridges over glacial rivers.

Yak Kharka, which translates to "Yak Pasture," is a tranquil spot surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your tea house, where you can enjoy a warm meal and relax. Take the rest of the day to acclimatize further, stay hydrated, and soak in the serene beauty of this high-altitude haven. Prepare for the continued ascent toward Phedi in the days ahead.

Today’s trek takes you from the peaceful Yak Kharka to Phedi, also known as Thorong Phedi, situated at an altitude of 4,450 meters. The trail gradually ascends through rugged and high-altitude terrain, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the barren, alpine landscape.

The trek begins with a steady climb along the trail, crossing a suspension bridge over the Kone River. The path then leads through landslide-prone areas, so caution is advised while trekking. Along the way, you may encounter mountain goats, blue sheep, and yaks grazing on the sparse vegetation.

Upon reaching Phedi, which serves as the base for higher-altitude climbs, you’ll settle into your tea house. Spend the rest of the day resting and acclimatizing, as the altitude increases significantly from this point onward. Phedi offers a striking and starkly beautiful setting, surrounded by towering peaks and glacial valleys, creating a sense of anticipation for the adventure ahead.

Today’s trek takes you from Phedi to High Camp, situated at an altitude of 4,800 meters. Although the distance is relatively short, the steep ascent and high altitude make this trek both challenging and rewarding.

The trail begins with a steep climb along rocky and rugged terrain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. As you ascend, the air becomes thinner, and the vegetation becomes sparse, with the landscape dominated by rocks and alpine wilderness. The route is well-marked but requires careful footing, especially on icy or loose sections.

Upon reaching High Camp, you’ll settle into your lodge or camp. The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and acclimatization, as this is a critical point before the more strenuous climbs to higher altitudes. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, hydrate well, and prepare mentally and physically for the upcoming trek to Annapurna South Base Camp.

Today marks a significant milestone as you trek from High Camp to the Annapurna South Base Camp (4,190m), the starting point of your climbing journey. While the trek involves descending to a slightly lower altitude, it remains physically demanding due to the rugged terrain and the high-altitude environment.

The trail begins with a gradual descent from High Camp, crossing glacial moraines and rocky pathways. As you approach the base camp, the terrain becomes more challenging, with uneven sections requiring careful footing. Along the way, you'll be treated to panoramic views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and the surrounding peaks, creating a dramatic backdrop as you approach your destination.

Upon reaching Annapurna South Base Camp, you’ll be greeted by a well-established campsite equipped with essential facilities. Here, you’ll meet the expedition team, including climbing Sherpas, cooks, and support staff, who will assist in preparing for the summit attempt. Spend the rest of the day resting, acclimatizing, and familiarizing yourself with the base camp environment. This is your home for the next several days as you prepare for the challenging climb ahead.

Morning:

• Breakfast at Base Camp: Start your day with a good breakfast at Annapurna South Base Camp. After the exertion of the summit push, a nourishing meal is essential.
• Preparation for Descent: Prepare for the descent back to High Camp. Pack up your gear and ensure you leave no trace at the base camp.

Trek Overview:

• Descent Route: The trek from Annapurna South Base Camp back to High Camp retraces part of the route you took on the ascent. Although it’s a descent, it can still be physically demanding due to the high altitude and uneven terrain.
• Duration: The trek to High Camp is expected to take around 6 hours. While descending is generally faster, it’s important to maintain a steady and careful pace to avoid strain on your knees and joints.

Midday:

• Lunch Break: Plan for a lunch break along the route. This could be a packed lunch or at a resting point, depending on the pace and preference of the group.

Afternoon:

• Arrival at High Camp: Arrive at High Camp in the afternoon. This is an opportunity to rest and recover from the descent.
• Rest and Acclimatization: Even though you are descending, continue to be mindful of your body's response to the change in altitude.

Evening:

• Dinner at High Camp: Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at High Camp. It’s a good time to reflect on the expedition and share experiences with your team.
• Overnight Stay: Spend the night at High Camp. Make sure to get a good rest as the descent journey continues the next day.

General Tips:

• Knee Care: Descending can be tough on the knees. Use trekking poles for support and to reduce the impact.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep up your fluid intake to aid in recovery and acclimatization.
• Monitor Health: Continue to monitor for any signs of fatigue or altitude sickness. Descending can sometimes trigger symptoms, especially if the descent is rapid.

Note:

• The descent phase of the expedition is as important as the ascent. It requires careful navigation and management of physical exertion.
• Take time to enjoy the views and reflect on the accomplishment of reaching the summit of Annapurna South as you begin your journey back.

Day 28 marks the beginning of your return journey, transitioning from the high of the summit success to the careful process of descending back towards lower altitudes. It’s a day to start processing the incredible experiences of the climb while still focusing on the trekking challenges ahead.

Morning:

• Breakfast at High Camp: Begin your day with breakfast at High Camp. A nourishing meal is important to set you up for the day's trek.
• Start of Descent: After breakfast, start your descent from High Camp to Phedi. This segment of the journey retraces your steps on the ascent but can feel different as you are now descending.

Trek Overview:

• Descending Terrain: The path from High Camp to Phedi is steep and can be challenging for the knees. Ensure you use your trekking poles for balance and support.
• Duration and Pace: The descent to Phedi is expected to take around 4 hours. Maintain a steady pace, and remember that descending can sometimes be more taxing on the body than ascending.

Midday:

• Lunch at Phedi: Depending on your pace, plan to have lunch at Phedi. This allows you to rest and refuel after the descent.

Afternoon:

• Rest at Phedi: Spend the afternoon resting at Phedi. After several days of intense physical activity, including the summit push and the subsequent descent, your body will appreciate this time to recover.
• Reflect on the Journey: Use this time to reflect on your experiences during the summit attempt and the descent. Sharing stories with fellow trekkers can be a rewarding way to process the journey.

Evening:

• Dinner: Have dinner at your accommodation in Phedi. This is a good opportunity to enjoy a more relaxed meal and socialize.
• Prepare for Next Day: Get your gear ready for the next day's trek. Ensure everything is packed and organized for an efficient start in the morning.

General Tips:

• Hydration: Continue to stay hydrated. Even though you are descending, hydration remains crucial for recovery and overall well-being.
• Monitor Your Health: Keep an eye on any signs of discomfort or altitude sickness. Descending rapidly can sometimes cause delayed symptoms.
• Enjoy the Scenery: As you descend, take the time to enjoy the changing landscapes and views that you may have missed on the ascent.

Note:

• The descent from High Camp to Phedi, while shorter in duration, requires careful navigation due to the steep and potentially slippery terrain.
• Embrace the journey back as an integral part of your expedition experience, offering a different perspective on the landscapes and an opportunity for introspection.

Day 29 continues your journey back down, allowing you to witness the Annapurna region's beauty from a new vantage point and bringing a sense of completion as you retrace your steps.

Morning:

• Breakfast at Phedi: Start with an energizing breakfast in Phedi. It's important to fuel up for the trek ahead.
• Commence Trek to Manang: Begin your trek back to Manang. This part of the journey allows you to revisit the stunning landscapes with a fresh perspective.

Trek Overview:

• Trail Characteristics: The trek from Phedi to Manang involves a combination of descent and level walking. You'll be retracing the path you took on your way up, but the experience can feel different as you are now more acclimatized and familiar with the terrain.
• Duration and Pace: The trek is expected to take around 4 hours. Even though you are on familiar territory, it's important to maintain a steady pace and be mindful of your footing, especially on downhill sections.

Midday:

• Lunch in Transit: You'll likely have lunch en route. Enjoy the meal amidst the natural beauty of the Annapurna region.

Afternoon:

• Arrival in Manang: Arrive in Manang in the early afternoon. The village's familiar sights can bring a sense of nostalgia and achievement as you near the end of your trek.
• Rest and Explore: After arriving, take some time to rest. You can also explore Manang, revisiting any sites you may have missed during your previous stay or simply soaking in the local atmosphere.

Evening:

• Dinner at Manang: Enjoy a more relaxed dinner in Manang. This is an excellent time to share experiences and reflections with your trekking companions.
• Prepare for the Next Day: Organize your gear and prepare for the next day's trek. With the expedition drawing to a close, begin to mentally transition from the rigors of the trek to the return journey home.

General Tips:

• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Continue to drink water regularly and eat nutritious meals to maintain your energy levels.
• Reflect on Your Journey: Use this time to reflect on the challenges you've overcome and the experiences you've gained.
• Health Monitoring: Keep monitoring your health. Descending to lower altitudes can sometimes lead to a rapid change in how your body feels.

Note: The return trek to Manang marks the nearing end of your mountain journey. It's a time for reflection, relaxation, and enjoying the final moments in the Himalayas.

Day 30 brings you back to Manang, a place that might now feel familiar. It’s a day to enjoy the trek at a more relaxed pace, with the hardest parts of the expedition behind you.

Morning:

• Early Start from Manang: Begin your day well before dawn. This is a long and demanding day, as you'll be crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world.
• Breakfast: Have a substantial breakfast in Manang for the energy needed for the trek ahead.

Ascent to Thorong La Pass:

• Challenging Climb: The ascent to Thorong La Pass (5,416m) is steep and challenging, especially in terms of altitude. Start early to cross the pass before midday, as weather conditions can be more stable in the morning.
• Reaching the Pass: Arriving at Thorong La Pass is a significant achievement. Take time to enjoy the panoramic views and perhaps capture some photos as a memento of your accomplishment.

Descent to Muktinath:

• Steep Downhill Trek: After crossing the pass, there's a steep descent to Muktinath. This holy site is an important pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Lunch at Muktinath: Depending on your pace, have lunch either at the pass or after descending in Muktinath.

Afternoon Trek to Jomsom:

• Trail to Jomsom: Continue your trek towards Jomsom, a major hub in the Mustang region. The trail from Muktinath to Jomsom is less steep and more gradual.
• Arrival in Jomsom: Expect to reach Jomsom (2,743m) by late afternoon or early evening. Jomsom is known for its strong winds, especially in the afternoons.

Evening:

• Dinner and Rest: After a long day of trekking, a hearty dinner will be most welcome. This is also a time to rest and recover.
• Reflect on the Day: This evening is an opportunity to reflect on the journey across Thorong La Pass, a major highlight for many trekkers.

General Tips:

• Pace Yourself: It's a long day, so pace yourself and monitor your physical condition, especially while crossing the pass.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep hydrating throughout the day. Altitude and exertion can dehydrate you faster.
• Dress Appropriately: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. Dress in layers to adjust to varying temperatures.
• Use of Trekking Poles: Trekking poles can be a great aid, especially during the steep descent to Muktinath.

Note: The trek from Manang to Jomsom via Thorong La Pass is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of the Annapurna circuit. It requires physical stamina and mental resilience.

Day 31 of your expedition is a testament to your endurance and willpower, as crossing Thorong La Pass is a remarkable achievement in high-altitude trekking. This day will likely stand out as one of the most memorable experiences of your journey.

Morning:

• Breakfast in Jomsom: Start your day with breakfast in Jomsom. After the physical demands of the previous days, a good meal is essential.
• Prepare for the Drive: Pack up and get ready for the drive to Pokhara. This marks a significant change in the mode of travel from trekking to driving.

Departure:

• Boarding the Vehicle: You will board a bus or a jeep for the journey to Pokhara. The vehicles used for this route are typically equipped to handle rough terrains.
• Leaving Jomsom: As you leave Jomsom, you’ll be bidding farewell to the stark landscapes of the Mustang region.

On the Road:

• Scenic Drive: The drive to Pokhara is scenic, offering views of the mountains, valleys, and rural Nepalese life. The route follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through several villages and towns.
• Road Conditions: Be prepared for varying road conditions. The journey can be bumpy and dusty, especially on the unpaved sections of the road.

Midday:

• Lunch Stop: The drive will include a stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the way. It's a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a meal.

Afternoon:

• Continued Journey to Pokhara: After lunch, continue your journey towards Pokhara. The landscape gradually shifts from arid highlands to greener, more lush environments as you approach Pokhara.

Evening:

• Arrival in Pokhara: Expect to arrive in Pokhara in the late afternoon or evening. Pokhara, with its serene lakes and more temperate climate, offers a stark contrast to the high-altitude environments you've been trekking in.
• Check-in to Hotel: Check into your hotel and take time to relax and freshen up after the long drive.

General Tips:

• Stay Hydrated: Keep drinking water throughout the journey.
• Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing for the long drive. Layers are advisable as temperatures may vary.
• Enjoy the Views: The drive offers a different perspective of the Nepalese landscape. Enjoy and capture the views as you transition back to urban settings.
• Rest and Recuperation: Utilize the evening to rest and recover from the journey. Pokhara offers a more relaxed and comfortable setting compared to the high mountains.

Note: The drive from Jomsom to Pokhara is long and can be tiring after the rigors of trekking. It signifies the transition from the adventure phase of your journey back to more urban comforts.

Day 32 allows you to transition from the high-altitude excitement of the Annapurna region to the tranquil beauty of Pokhara, a city known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. It's a day of travel, reflection, and anticipation of the comforts of urban life.

Morning:

• Breakfast in Pokhara: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Pokhara. After the intense trekking days, the relaxed atmosphere of the city offers a pleasant change.
• Prepare for Departure: Pack your belongings and check out of your hotel. Depending on your choice of transportation, head to the Pokhara airport for a flight or to the bus station for a drive back to Kathmandu.

Option 1: Flight to Kathmandu

• Flight Duration: The flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is the quickest way to travel, taking about 25 minutes.
• Airport Transfer: Transfer to the Pokhara airport, which is relatively close to the city center.
• Scenic Flight: The flight offers stunning views of the Himalayas, weather permitting. It's the last aerial glimpse of the mountains you trekked through.
• Arrival in Kathmandu: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Option 2: Drive to Kathmandu

• Drive Duration: The drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
• Scenic Route: The drive follows a scenic route along the Trishuli River. It's a great opportunity to see Nepal's diverse landscapes.
• Rest Stops: The journey includes rest stops for meals and refreshments.

Afternoon/Evening in Kathmandu:

• Free Time: Depending on your arrival time in Kathmandu, you may have free time to explore the city, do some shopping, or simply relax.
• Cultural Exploration: If time allows, consider visiting any cultural sites in Kathmandu that you missed at the beginning of your trip.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner in Kathmandu. This might be a nice opportunity to have a farewell meal with your trekking group or guides.

General Tips:

• Flight Delays: If you choose to fly, be aware that flights can sometimes be delayed due to weather conditions.
• Comfortable Travel: Whether flying or driving, dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
• Reflect on Your Journey: Use this day to reflect on your trekking experience and the memories you’ve created.

Note: Your journey back to Kathmandu signifies the conclusion of your Annapurna South Expedition. It's a time for reflection, relaxation, and enjoying the amenities of the capital city after your trekking adventure.

Day 33 brings you back to Kathmandu, marking the end of your journey through the Annapurna region. Whether you choose to fly or drive, this day offers a transition from the adventures in the mountains back to the bustling urban life of the capital.

Morning:

• Leisurely Breakfast: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu. This is a well-deserved rest day after the rigors of the trek.
• Rest and Recuperation: Take the morning to rest. This is a good time to catch up on sleep, read, or simply enjoy the amenities of your hotel.

Midday:

• Leisurely Lunch: Have a leisurely lunch either at your hotel or at one of Kathmandu's many restaurants. You might want to try some local Nepalese cuisine or international dishes.
• Light Sightseeing (Optional): If you're feeling up to it, consider some light sightseeing. Places like the Garden of Dreams offer a peaceful and beautiful environment to relax.

Afternoon:

• Spa or Massage: Consider treating yourself to a spa treatment or a traditional Nepalese massage. This can be a great way to relax your muscles after the trek.
• Shopping and Souvenirs: Kathmandu offers various shopping opportunities, from traditional Nepalese handicrafts to trekking gear. Thamel is a popular spot for buying souvenirs and gifts.

Evening:

• Dinner and Cultural Show: For dinner, you might want to experience a traditional Nepalese cultural show, which often includes local music and dance performances.
• Reflect on Your Expedition: Use the evening to reflect on your expedition experiences. It's a good time to journal, sort through photos, or simply reminisce about the journey.

General Tips:

• Stay Hydrated and Healthy: Continue to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious meals to aid your body's recovery.
• Relax and Enjoy: This is a day for relaxation and enjoyment. Indulge in activities that you find most restful and pleasant.
• Prepare for Departure: If you're leaving Nepal soon, begin organizing your belongings and making any necessary travel arrangements.

Note: A rest day in Kathmandu after such an intensive expedition is important not just for physical recovery but also for mental relaxation and processing the incredible experiences you've had.

Day 34 is a day of relaxation and enjoyment in Kathmandu, allowing you to unwind from the trek and indulge in the comforts and cultural offerings of the city. It's a day to take it easy and enjoy the diverse experiences that Kathmandu has to offer.

Morning:

• Final Breakfast in Kathmandu: Enjoy your last breakfast in Kathmandu. Depending on your flight schedule, this might be an early morning meal.
• Packing and Check-Out: Finalize your packing, ensuring you have all your belongings. Check out of your hotel in time for your airport transfer.

Airport Transfer:

• Hotel to Airport: The transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport will be arranged by your hotel or trekking company. Make sure to leave with plenty of time to spare, considering Kathmandu's traffic conditions.
• Arrival at the Airport: Once at the airport, proceed to check-in for your flight. Remember to have your passport and flight documents handy.

Before the Flight:

• Security and Immigration: Go through airport security and immigration. This process can sometimes take time, so it’s good to be patient.
• Duty-Free and Relaxation: After clearing security, you can explore duty-free shops or relax in the departure lounge.

Flight:

• Boarding: Board your flight as per the instructions provided at the gate. Settle in for your journey back home.
• Reflection: The flight back is a good time to reflect on your experiences during the Annapurna South Expedition. Think about the challenges you overcame, the beauty you witnessed, and the friendships you made.

General Tips:

• Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself hydrated during the flight.
• Comfort: Dress comfortably for the flight. It’s also a good idea to carry essentials like a neck pillow, earplugs, or a book to make your journey more comfortable.
• Airport Arrivals: Upon arrival at your destination, go through immigration, collect your baggage, and proceed through customs.

Note: Departure day marks the end of your Annapurna South Expedition journey. It’s a day of transition from the adventures in Nepal back to your everyday life.

Day 35 is your departure day, a time to bid farewell to Nepal and carry home memories of an incredible journey through one of the world’s most spectacular trekking routes. As you head home, reflect on the experiences and lessons learned during your time in the Himalayas.

General Overview:

The climbing period for Annapurna South is a significant phase of the expedition, spanning over two weeks. This period is characterized by a series of climbs between various camps, acclimatization, and waiting for suitable weather windows for the summit push.

Initial Days (Days 11-15):

• Acclimatization and Short Climbs: These days involve acclimatization hikes and short climbs to higher altitudes, followed by returns to lower altitudes to sleep.
• Setting up Higher Camps: Establish higher camps (Camp I, Camp II, etc.) and transport necessary gear and supplies to these camps.

Mid-Expedition (Days 16-22):

• Rest and Weather Monitoring: Take necessary rest days and monitor the weather closely to plan for the summit push. Weather at high altitudes can be unpredictable, and finding the right window is crucial for safety.
• Further Acclimatization: Continue acclimatization climbs to higher camps, spending nights at increasing altitudes.

Summit Push (Approx. Days 23-26):

• Attempt Summit: The exact days for the summit push depend on weather conditions and the team's readiness. The summit push is a rigorous climb, often starting before midnight to reach the summit in the early morning.
• Challenges: The summit push involves navigating through steep, icy, and potentially treacherous sections. It requires technical climbing skills, physical endurance, and mental fortitude.

Final Days (Day 27):

• Descent: After the summit attempt, start the descent back to the lower camps. The descent must be carefully managed as it presents its own set of challenges.
• Back to Base Camp: Return to Annapurna South Base Camp for rest and recovery. This is a time for celebration as well as reflection on the accomplishment.

General Tips:

• Safety First: Always prioritize safety over summiting. Be prepared to turn back if conditions are unfavorable.
• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Maintain regular hydration and eat energy-rich foods to sustain your strength.
• Regular Health Checks: Monitor your health and be alert to any signs of altitude sickness or physical distress.
• Communication: Maintain open communication with your team members and expedition leader, especially regarding your physical and mental condition.

Note:

• The itinerary for these days is highly subject to change based on individual and team conditions, weather, and other unpredictable factors in the mountain environment.
• Flexibility and patience are key during this period, as weather and health conditions can significantly impact plans.

Days 11-27 are the heart of the Annapurna South Expedition, encompassing the crucial summit attempt and the physical and emotional challenges it entails. This period demands the highest level of endurance, skill, and resilience from each climber.