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Pink rhododendron - Over 55's Annapurna Rhododendron Trek, Nepal
Pink rhododendron
Towering peaks as we descend from Poon Hill - Over 55's Annapurna Rhododendron Trek, Nepal
Towering peaks as we descend from Poon Hill  | Mark Watson
Sunrise over the Annapurnas - Over 55's Annapurna Rhododendron Trek, Nepal
Sunrise over the Annapurnas
Machapuchare, the famous 'fishtail mountain' in Nepal's Annapurna region - Over 55's Annapurna Rhododendron Trek, Nepal
Machapuchare, the famous 'fishtail mountain' in Nepal's Annapurna region  | Brad Atwal
Enjoy the traditional Gurung villages of the Annapurna region with the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges providing the ideal backdrop - Over 55's Annapurna Rhododendron Trek, Nepal
Enjoy the traditional Gurung villages of the Annapurna region with the towering Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges providing the ideal backdrop  | Sue Badyari

Over 55's Annapurna Rhododendron Trek

Encounter rhododendron in full bloom along the forest trails of Annapurna

Nepal

13 Days from

$2590 USD

Trip Code: AR5
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Tent only Single Supplement
$100 USD
Hotel only Single Supplement
$150 USD
Single Supplement
$260 USD
Duration
  • 13 Days
Activities
  • 9 day trek
Style
  • In Comfort Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel
  • 1 night private eco campsite
  • 7 nights eco lodge
Meals

Valued at USD$450

  • 8 Dinners
  • 9 Lunches
  • 12 Breakfasts
Flights

Valued at USD$266

Difficulty Grading  
3 / 10

Introductory

Carbon Footprint  

30kg of CO2-e PP per day

(361kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Annapurna Trip highlights

  • A gentle introduction to Himalayan trekking, taking in the beauty of the Annapurna Range without the pressure of high altitude or long days
  • Walk among Nepal’s national flower in full bloom, with rhododendron forests bursting in shades of red, pink and white
  • Watch the sun rise over Annapurna South, Dhaulagiri and the sacred Machapuchare from Poon Hill
  • Relax in Pokhara, the charming lakeside town framed by mountain views, perfect for unwinding after your trek

Overview

Timed perfectly for the rhododendron season, this trek lets you walk through forests bursting with Nepal’s national flower. There are around 30 native varieties here, blooming in brilliant shades of red, pink and white, thriving in the cool mountain air. It’s a real highlight of Nepal.

This trip is designed for those who’d like to explore at a slightly slower pace, making it an ideal introduction to trekking in the Annapurnas without feeling rushed. From Pokhara we head north toward the great Annapurna massif, passing through traditional Hindu villages with breathtaking views of the mountains. Our trails wind through oak and flowering rhododendron forests, and each night we stay in eco lodges set in peaceful locations with stunning views of the Annapurna Range.

All of this is enjoyed in the company of our wonderful local crew, whose warmth, humour and genuine care make sure your trek is not just rewarding but truly memorable

Itinerary

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You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the Radisson hotel. Remainder of the afternoon at leisure. A pre-trek briefing will be given around 4.30-5pm where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. This evening we will head out for dinner, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with your fellow group members. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and significant landmarks. You may wish to start by exploring the city’s two most important World Heritage Listed spiritual sites: Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist shrine outside of Tibet. Alternatively you could wander through the markets and shops of the busy Thamel precinct or explore some more of the city’s significant sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the World Heritage Listed plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square. It is possible that the Kathmandu free day will take place at the conclusion of your trek instead of at the beginning. If this is to occur with your group, your leader will brief you locally.

Meals: B

We take a short 25min early morning flight to Pokhara, Nepal’s second largest city (820m). In good weather we are greeted with sights of the entire Annapurna range. From here we drive alongside the Kali Gandaki river and through foothills and valleys to Kimche. On arrival we will begin our walk to Ghandruk, our first overnight stop. Overnight: Exclusive eco-comfort camp Drive: approx 3 hours Walk: approx 2 hours

Meals: B,L,D

Our trail meanders uphill through fields and into forest of rhododendron, magnolia and lichen covered fig. We pass by waterfalls that cascade down narrow gullies that provide the perfect home for many small ferns and delicate plants such as exotic orchids bursting with colour. After lunch, mostly the trail goes through incredibly dense Rhododendron forests, where we may encounter playful Langur monkeys. The walking in the forest is like a fairy tale. We reach Tadapani which is a small village home to our eco lodge, where we will spend the night. Overnight: Eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, we enjoy the amazing view of sunrise on Annapurna South, Himchuli and Machapuchare from Tadapani. After breakfast, we will walk around the Rhododendron forest to enjoy the different species of colorful flowers.

Meals: B,L,D

Today the path winds slowly up through the forest as we make our way to Deurali. Weather permitting we will catch glimpses of Machapuchare, Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South through the forest as we ascend higher. Today will be one of the most spectacular with Rhododendron everywhere throughout the trail. On arrival in the colourful village of Deurali we find our eco-lodge and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding ranges.

Meals: B,L,D

Today's walk will see us follow the trail with some downhill sections to Ghorepani. This is a sizeable town on the main tourist trail. You may wish to wander through the bazaar, browse through Tibetan wares on display and enjoy local treats from the bakeries. Overnight: eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Most trekkers to Ghorepani make the pre dawn 45 minute climb to the summit of Poon Hill (3200m). We will make the climb in the afternoon, when there are no crowds. From Poon Hill we leave the main trail and traverse on old yak herder trails to Upper Phulbari. We will descend again along winding trails through the Rhododendron forests, pine, bamboo and oak trees. Phulbari means the garden and we can enjoy the different varieties of wild plants and flowers. The location affords even more spectacular views than from Poon Hill, which we enjoy from the comfort of our eco lodge and with the luxury of no pre-dawn start. The photography is superb from here so you may wish to have an early night and get up early to catch the sunrise over the Himalaya.

Meals: B,L,D

Before heading to Ghorepani, if you feel energetic we can go for an optional walk to Mohore Danda (3300m) which takes approx. 2 to 3 hours from Upper Phulbari. Views from here over the mountains range are spectacular. We then make the return journey to Ghorepani and our eco-lodge where we overnight.

Meals: B,L,D

The walk today sees us descend through small settlements to enter a deep ravine where multiple waterfalls follow our trail. We over night in an eco lodge in the village of Ulleri. From Ulleri we will have an over view of our trek route, as well as views of the Annapurnas at the head of the valley. Overnight: eco-lodge

Meals: B,L,D

Today we descend steeply down to valley floor, passing through the beautiful countryside villages of Tirkhedhunga. From here we board our vehicle for the picturesque drive back to Pokhara. Note that the walking hours include rest stops, are a guide only and can vary due to trail or weather conditions. Overnight: hotel

Meals: B,L

This morning we transfer to the airport for our spectacular flight to Kathmandu. The mountain flight follows the Himalaya range to Kathmandu where we transfer to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free for last minute shopping and sightseeing. Overnight: Radisson Hotel or similiar

Meals: B

After breakfast arrangements cease unless further arrangements have been made. Those people travelling by aircraft to further destinations will be transferred to the airport and assisted with check-in procedures. *It is important to us that this trek follows few of the commercial tea-house trails. Accordingly the route and campsites may be varied at the discretion of the group leader. Note that the walking hours include rest stops, are a guide only and can vary greatly.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

2 scheduled departures between 13 Mar 2027 and 29 Mar 2027.

  • Departs 13 Mar 2027 – ends 25 Mar 2027 (13 days)
  • Departs 29 Mar 2027 – ends 10 Apr 2027 (13 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 12 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 8 dinners including all meals on trek valued at US$450
  • Flight Kathmandu/Pokhara return valued at US$266
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • airport transfers if arriving on day 1 and 13 or if you booked pre/post tour accommodation at the Radisson through World Expeditions
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Group medical kit
  • Good quality accommodation in Kathmandu on a twinshare basis
  • accommodation on trek in a combination of comfortable eco lodges, and our exclusive eco-comfort camps with off the ground camp beds, mattresses and pillows
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • Private vehicle transportation
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits and site entry fees
  • Porters to carry all personal and group equipment and porter's insurance

Not included

  • Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
  • Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
  • Tips
  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Responsible Travel

Breathtaking views as we trek down towards Thame | Monika Molenda
Restoring Learning in Thame Project
 
Restoring access to digital education through the installation of a computer lab and smart classroom technology, helping rebuild learning opportunities for students affected by climate-related disasters.
 
In Nepal's Solukhumbu region, the remote mountain village of Thame is recovering from a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and critical community services — including the local school and its computer lab. With students displaced and relocated to temporary learning facilities, access to quality education has been severely disrupted, particularly in digital learning.
 
The Rebuilding Digital Education in Thame project aims to address this gap by equipping the newly relocated Thame Basic School with a computer lab, smart boards, and essential digital infrastructure. This will enable students and teachers to access modern, technology-enabled education in one of the most remote regions in the world.
 
With support from the World Expeditions Foundation, this project will fund the installation of computers, smart boards, printers, and classroom infrastructure to support both students and teachers. The outcome? Improved digital literacy, more engaging and interactive teaching, and equitable access to education for a community rebuilding after disaster.
 
The project is led by Himalayan Trust Nepal, a long-standing organisation working closely with local communities, schools, and government partners to deliver sustainable education and development outcomes across the Khumbu region.
 
Support our work
Our Commitment to Porters in Nepal
 
Porters are central to every trek we run in Nepal, and we are committed to their safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment.
 
We ensure fair pay, enforce strict load limits (max 30kg), and provide proper clothing, equipment, meals, and safe accommodation.
 
Porters have equal access to medical care, insurance, and emergency support as our travellers.
 
You can trek knowing your journey supports responsible and ethical practices.
Help us keep the places that inspire us clean by taking part in our 10 Pieces litter initiative | Lachlan Gardiner
Cleaning Up Wilderness Trails
 
Our 10 Pieces initiative is a simple, voluntary way to give back while you trek.
 
Travellers are encouraged to collect 10 pieces of litter each day along the trail, helping protect these fragile environments.
 
You'll find more details in your client portal once you book, and your tour leader will introduce the initiative at your first group meeting in Kathmandu.

Extra trip info

Stay at our comfortable semi-permanent campsites in Nepal's Everest region | Mark Tipple

Exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps

Four decades of feedback and experience has proven that camping provides the most authentic trekking experience. On this trek you will enjoy the extra comfort of our exclusive camps, which feature standing height tents, clean beds with mattresses and pillows, a heated dining room, composting sit down toilets and more.

Lunch at Gorak Shep amongst the world's highest peaks, Nepal | Amanda Fletcher

Meals at our Exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps

Did you know that meals on a 2 week tea-house based trek in Nepal could cost you in excess of US$800pp?! Value for money, peace of mind, looking after your health as well as the local landscapes are just some of the reasons why we believe it’s a wise decision to choose a Nepal trek with all meals included. Watch our ‘7 Reasons Why We Include Meals On Our Nepal Treks’ video below to learn even more.

Double room at the Radisson Hotel | Ayla Rowe

Radisson Hotel - Kathmandu

A hearty buffet breakfast is included with every night stay in the Radisson. The Tranquility Spa, within the Radisson offers massage, reflexology, steam room and sauna, plus many beauty treatments for your enjoyment - as a World Expeditions client you will receive a 30% discount off the retail prices on any treatment at the Spa. You can book these services through the Radisson while you are in Nepal.

Our groups stay at the comfortable Radisson Hotel when in Kathmandu | Peter Walton

Radisson Hotel - Kathmandu

In Kathmandu we stay at the comfortable, well located Radisson Hotel. The Radisson Hotel is situated in Lazimpat, a quiet and central area of Kathmandu. Only a short 12 minute walk to the main tourist district of Thamel, the Radisson acts as a base for World Expeditions travellers. The hotel has a World Expeditions tour desk in the foyer, free WIFI, a pool and bar, restaurants, room service, currency exchange and free luggage storage whilst you are on trip.

Meals are fully included on our Nepal treks so you stay properly fuelled for the journey. Trekking, particularly at altitude, burns a huge number of calories each day, and we believe good food is essential to maintaining energy and enjoyment on the trail.

On a typical two-week tea-house trek, buying meals along the way can cost well over US$800 per person. Some companies appear cheaper by not including meals. By including all meals, you actually save both money and time while also knowing every day’s food is taken care of by your own trek cook.

Your groups trekking cook and kitchen crew will prepare fresh, hearty meals with careful attention to hygiene and nutrition, and there is always plenty available - seconds are always welcome. At our Eco-Comfort Camps, many meals also feature vegetables grown in the camp gardens, bringing fresh produce to some of the most remote trekking routes in the Himalaya.

We can cater for most dietary requirements - talk to our team to learn more.

Use of essential equipment is included in your trip cost | Tim Charody

If you don’t trek regularly, investing in specialised gear for a single adventure can be expensive. Quality equipment designed for high altitude and cold conditions is essential, yet we see many trekkers in Nepal with gear that might look suitable, but will not be effective in many Himalayan conditions.

To save you hassle, and money, we provide the use of a World Expeditions Trek Pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket and a cosy fleece sleeping bag liner. At our Eco-Comfort Camps we even supply an extra blanket. You receive your Trek Pack at the start of your trip, use it throughout your trek, and can pack it into your World Expeditions souvenir kit bag when travelling on the trail.

Just as importantly, it supports your safety and comfort. Staying warm at night and getting proper rest (along with good food) are critical to maintaining energy and enjoying your trek in the Himalaya.

Flight to Lukla | Lachlan Gardiner

Flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara are included on many Annapurna region adventures and are arranged by our team so your group travels together.

During the busy trekking seasons flights can book out quickly, so early booking helps ensure we can secure the services needed for your trek.

This short flight connects Nepal’s two main aviation hubs using larger aircraft with frequent daily departures, making it more reliable than many mountain airstrips.

The flight itself is a highlight, with spectacular views across the Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh and Langtang ranges on clear days.

By booking early, we can organise the flights to Pokhara in advance, which simplifies trek logistics so you can focus on preparing for the trek ahead.

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The trek runs in spring (March to April), which is one of the most rewarding seasons in the Annapurna region. This is when the rhododendron forests are in full bloom, the days are warm and clear, and the mountain views are at their best. It’s an ideal time for relaxed trekking with less chance of extreme weather.

No – this itinerary is designed for active, healthy over 55s who enjoy walking and cultural discovery. No previous trekking experience is needed. The pace is deliberately slower, with time to rest, absorb the surroundings and connect with like-minded travellers. The walking days are achievable and well supported.

You’ll carry just a daypack with your daily essentials (approx. 6–8kg / 13–18lb), such as a rain jacket, water bottle, sunscreen and camera. Your main gear is carried by porters, so you’re free to walk comfortably.

Your trekking duffel, provided by us, should not exceed 15kg (33lb). This is the bag carried by porters. You’ll also have a small daypack for personal use.

Yes – any items not needed on trek can be safely stored at the hotel in Kathmandu until your return.

Accommodation is twin-share. If you prefer your own space, a single supplement is available at additional cost, subject to availability. If you're travelling solo and don’t request a single room, you’ll be paired with another solo traveller of the same gender.

During the day, temperatures are typically mild and comfortable, especially in spring. At night, particularly at higher camps, it can get cool to cold, but not extreme. You’ll be provided with a warm sleeping bag and jacket, and Eco-Comfort Camps include a heated communal dining area to relax in during the evenings.

Yes – at all Eco-Comfort Camps, clean, private Western-style sit-down toilets are provided. These are purpose-built for comfort and convenience, and well maintained by the crew.

Yes – you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Annapurna South (7,219m), Machapuchare (6,993m) and surrounding Himalayan peaks. The route also passes through rhododendron forests, Gurung villages, terraced fields, and traditional farming landscapes, offering a richer cultural and scenic mix than higher alpine routes.

In Kathmandu, you’ll stay at the Radisson Hotel – a well-appointed and centrally located hotel with comfort and modern facilities. During the trek, accommodation is in our exclusive Eco-Comfort Camps, which include spacious tents with stretcher beds and mattresses, a heated dining tent, and clean sit-down toilets. The comfort level is higher than on traditional treks, and everything is set up by our dedicated support team.

Charging is available in many camps for a small fee. We recommend bringing a power bank or portable solar charger for convenience, especially if you use your phone for photos.

Yes – all meals are included while on trek. Your meals are freshly prepared by our trained kitchen crew using mostly fresh ingredients. You’ll enjoy hearty and nutritious meals designed to keep you healthy and well-fuelled. In Kathmandu, breakfast is included, and other meals are at your own expense to allow flexibility.

The trip is graded Introductory to Moderate (Grade 3). You’ll be walking for up to 6 hours a day, with some gentle ascents and descents. The trip is suitable for active older travellers who enjoy walking and are in good general health. The itinerary is paced for comfort, not speed.

The highest point on this trek is approximately 2,875m (9,432ft). This is well below the level where serious altitude symptoms occur, and the itinerary is planned to allow for gradual altitude gain and plenty of rest.

No – a warm sleeping bag, liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket are all provided. These are designed for Himalayan conditions, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

You’ll receive a full packing list after booking. We provide the essential gear, including your sleeping bag, jacket, liner and duffel bag. You only need to bring your own clothing, boots, daypack and personal items.

This itinerary is curated for travellers aged 55 and over, with a focus on comfort, cultural depth and relaxed pace. It uses Eco-Comfort Camps instead of lodges, keeps walking distances moderate, and includes time to connect with local communities and enjoy the surroundings. You’ll travel with a group of like-minded people, supported by a highly experienced team.

  • Sleep greener at our sustainable Eco-Comfort Camps, which feature added homey comforts like raised beds, clean linen, mattress and pillow
  • Pioneering Porter Policy: we supply our porters with food, accommodation and clothing on trek (including wind/waterproof jackets, boots and more) and the same medical care as our trekkers, plus other benefits including insurance and a good working wage
  • Camping based treks employ more local people, which spreads the financial benefits of tourism further into the community
  • Receive a souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • Enjoy a more cultural experience by interacting with your support team in our Eco-Comfort Camp environment
  • Save money and hassle with our inclusions: all meals on trek prepared by our dedicated cooks plus hot drinks and unlimited water, 5kg extra baggage allowance on internal flights and use of a Trek Pack (quality down jacket, sleeping bag and more)
  • Safety measures include a well-paced itinerary with extra days for better acclimatisation, expert wilderness first aid trained guides equipped with medical kit

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