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Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers  

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28 Reviews

4.8 out of 5

Reviews

Unforgettable trip along the Annapurnas!

This trip was unforgettable! Many people choose to do the Annapurna Circuit on their own and they mainly follow the Jeep track, which didn’t appeal to us. We were so happy and grateful that we decided to go with Exodus – we had the best guides! Sukman and his assistant guides Dipendra and Lakpa Sherpa were fantastic.

We had knock knock tea in the mornings – loved that part, and followed a mix of alternate trails (that weren’t well known) with certain sections along the main Jeep track. On those quieter trails, we rarely encountered other trekkers and definitely no other tour groups. We did pass herds of goats and met local people. We only saw other people along the main jeep track.

Two days before reaching Thorong La Pass, we had heavy snow. Thanks to Sukman’s expertise, he made the difficult decision to backtrack immediately. Many trekkers without guides, or those who chose to wait out the storm, ended up stranded at high camp and had to be rescued. We were fortunate to make it safely off the mountain in time, though it meant rerouting the second half of our trip. Even with the detour – we thoroughly this trip thanks to the amazing team. The porters were also incredible companions. Without them, carrying all of our belongings for three weeks would have been tough!!

Most Inspirational Moment

Day 1 was super memorable - we crossed suspension bridges, passing rivers and waterfalls, over rice paddies and hiked up and down many steps through villages. What an intro to what was ahead! One of the most inspiring days for me was Day 7 - starting from Upper Pisang, our Teahouse view was of Annapurna II! We made our way to Ngawal. This day definitely gave us a taste of a continuous climb up as we were just days before the high pass, the views were stunning and it just got better and better as the day unfolded. You look back thinking, I can't believe we came from all the way down *there*.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sukman was exceptionally caring, kind, and patient throughout the trek. He led from the back, ensuring that everyone in the group was well taken care of. Our safety was his top priority. Sukman’s knowledge of the mountains and local life & culture was very inspiring. We would 100% travel with him again in the future!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be mindful of what you pack, and keep your KITBAG weight within the 10kilo limit. You travel with local human porters, who work incredibly hard -something many people don’t fully appreciate. Overpacking can be quite selfish. If you forget something, don’t worry—you’ll still find supplies along the route - For example, in Chame and Manang. We were able to pick up our YakTrax right before Yak Kharka. High altitude is no joke, so having a comfort item can make a big difference. Just remember, keep your load within the weight limits.

Absolutely Stunning

The most stunning trek you can imagine. The Himalaya’s really are great cathedrals of nature. Walk alongside 3 of the top 10 peaks in the world, with an itinerary set up to ensure you succeed at altitude and make it over the amazing Thorong La Pass at 5,416m. Most competitors do the trek in 2 weeks, missing large sections or not acclimatising properly – the 22 day version means you complete (just about) everything.

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole group reaching the top of the Thorong La Pass on a stunning blue shy and snow covered floor, together.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sam was outstanding.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You do need to be fit - 17 days of back to back trekking with over 11,000m of ascent and decent is not for the faint hearted. But if you like a challenge, enjoy walking, then this has to be one of the most amazing treks in the world.

Annapurna Circuit (Nov17 - Dec08

An incredible trek during a less crowded time. Drier and cooler at this time of the year though (crossing the pass we started at -5F).

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing in Thorong La pass!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Kumar was outstanding. Positive, knowledgeable, and motivated to make our team succeed. The rest of the guides were great as well.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't bother packing food, can purchase in tea houses. If you wish, can buy most supplies in Kathmandu in the bazaars (except good socks - tougher to find). Bring clothes pins. Layers are good, as can start cold and transition to warm (and vice versa). Can get / purchase water (boiled as well) in most tea houses. Sun screen and good sun glasses!

Fantastic Adventure

I wanted to complete the Annapurna Circuit before I reached a landmark birthday (70!). It was amazing! Our leader, Valerie was a font of information, especially relating to the cultural aspects – Tibetan Buddhism and local cultural traditions. The accommodation was basic, but comfortable, and the trip notes made it clear what to expect. There were extra duvets in the beds at higher altitude, so there was no problem with being cold at night. There was plenty of choice regarding the menus – more than I expected. I would certainly recommend this trip to anyone with the required fitness level and a taste for adventure.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting over the Thorong La Pass with no adverse effects, apart from shortage of breath during the ascent. The scenery on the other side, where there were very few trees, but spectacular pinnacles caused by wind erosion.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent! Knowledgeable, friendly, kind. She took particular care of people who were struggling, and made appropriate adjustments, as necessary to ensure that everyone had a positive experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you are mountain fit, and be extra careful about hand sanitation before meals.

Annapurna Circuit – Trip of a Lifetime.

This trip was an arduous but ultimately very fulfilling trek round 158 miles of some of the most beautiful scenery in Nepal. Luckily, we had no rain and most of the time walked in bright and glorious sunshine.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing dawn breaking from the summit of Poon Hill towards the end of the trek. It really took your breath away, both the climb and the views. On the summit the full majesty of the Annapurna massif was gradually revealed in all its splendour.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I have been on a few adventure treks over the years and I can honestly say that Sukman Tamang is the best trek leader and guide that I have ever had. I don’t say that lightly, but he is head and shoulders above the rest. Right from the start when he welcomed us all in Kathmandu, his radiant smile and outgoing personality shone through. He made every individual on that trip feel special as well as expertly looking after the group as a whole, whether they were trekkers, assistant guides or Sherpas. He was enthusiastic, likeable and, most importantly, a great communicator. He was able to share his extensive knowledge of Nepal and the Annapurna region in an engaging, interactive and entertaining way. He was able to give us a fascinating insight into Nepal’s rich history and culture. And each evening he was able to deliver an excellent and informative briefing about the following day’s itinerary and everybody knew what to expect. His organisational skills were outstanding, which was no easy feat trying to balance the needs of 16 trekkers and as many guides and Sherpas as well. He kept an eye on everyone’s welfare and I noticed that he checked on everyone in the group on a daily basis. And if anything unexpected happened he remained calm and dealt with the situation in a patient and methodical manner, whether it was someone with a cut on the head, an injured knee or someone forgetting to bring their micro spikes on the Thorong La pass. One of the main reasons that everyone seemed to be enjoying the trip was down to Sukman’s sense of humour. His ready smile and quick wit led to everyone feeling relaxed and comfortable even during the toughest days. Sukman’s hard work and professionalism went a long way towards making the trek for all of us so rewarding and fulfilling. That is what makes him such a great tour guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you were worried about the altitude I would recommend that you consider taking beetroot capsules as a preventative measure. The naturally occurring nitric oxide in beetroot increases the amount of oxygen in the blood and can help reduce the risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) at high altitude. I would always seek proper medical advice before taking any supplements, but they certainly worked for me.

The best Himalayan trek

A very satisfying trek encircling the Annapurna range. A huge variety of landscapes and climatic zones

Most Inspirational Moment

The villages and the people we ecountered and the grandeur of the mountain landscape.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Probably the best leader I have had on many guided trips. Sukman was superbly orgainised and coped with any issues before they deteriorated. His open friendly manner put everyone at ease, and he conveyed his love of Nepal in his talks about Nepali culture and life. Thanks Sukman, for me you made this trek so special.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring a buff. It can be dusty when the wind blows. Bring a few pencils and notebooks, as a trip member did, to give to children.

A Fantastic Trek

A great place for a challenging trek. The scenery was amazing and all the people of Nepal, that i met, were friendly and hospitable. The Himalayas really are great cathedrals of nature and were a pleasure to see as the group travelled through the Annapurna Circuit. Our tour leader, Tenzi Sherpa, and lead guide Kaji Sherpa were fantastic and professional at all times during the tour, providing support, words of encouragement and lots of cups of tea. They enhanced the trek with professional service at all times.

Most Inspirational Moment

The crossing of Thorong La pass was amazing and an unforgettable experience.

Thoughts on Group Leader

A fantastic tour leader who was hard working and inspiring as we trekked around the Annapurna Circuit

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for amazing views of the mountains and friendly locals. Feb/March was cold in the evening and especially at night. A 4 season sleeping bag and liner is essential to a warm nights sleep. Although the menus in the tea houses is simple, the food was wholesome and great portions.

Annapurna, Thorong La and Excellent Guide

Completed the Annapurna Circuit in December 19, as I had previously done the EBC trip and was aware of just how great Nepal is. The ACT did not disappoint and I was again amazed by the scenery, wildlife and the friendliness of the local people. The trek uses tea houses for accommodation with hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhora at the start and finish of the trip. All of these provide good accommodation with acceptable amenities and I could not fault the food. 3 weeks in duration, it contains about 17 days of treking. Despite being graded “tough” it is the crossing of the Thorong La pass at 5,416m that gives it this rating. The trek to Gohrepani and Poon hill are less difficult as they are not at altitude. Therefore, it is eminently achievable, even if you are not that experienced at altitude. Most days are between 5-8 hours treking, but the pace is sedate enough to allow you to acclimatise and get the most from the environment. Our guide – Dorjee Sherpa was outstanding. A young man full of enthusiasm and knowledge Who enhanced the entire experience

Most Inspirational Moment

Crossing the Thorong La pass. This is a demanding climb if starting from Thorong Pedi (base camp) and can be made more difficult by the weather conditions. Therefore the sense of achievement in attaining the pass is well deserved. It should be tempered by the realisation you still have 8 hours of treking left to reach Muktinath!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Dorjee Sherpa was a very knowledgeable and capable guide. He fostered an excellent relationship with all of the group and also facilitated the development of relationships between the group and porters. He was hard working and ensured the experience of each individual within the group was enhanced. He provided an excellent service at each and every tea house ensuring that the needs of all were met. He imparted his knowledge of the area, fauna/flora, religion and legends and was simply outstanding. He conducted dynamic risk assessments when required and I even witnessed him carry the rucksack of a struggling tourist across the pass! He has a bright future in this field and I cannot sing his praises highly enough. Well done!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring snacks for the long walking days - despite good food and multiple tea stops I could have done with carrying more carbohydrate/energy bars such as H5. I would carry a few travel squashes as you need to drink a lot of water which becomes boring Read the trip notes concerning tipping and allocate the appropriate funds for this - this is only moral and just for the work that has been done to support you. Bladders and tubes will freeze so Nalgene bottles are essential

Absolutely Amazing Scenery

This was my first trip to the Annapurna region and chosen because I’m not sure what it will look like in even 5 years time with all the road development going on. Yes, there are a couple of days where you’re walking on a dirt road which used to be the trail but the lasting memories are of the spectacular scenery, the fantastic Nepalese people, the great camaraderie in our group and our leaders who were superb organisers and really good fun as well. The first time you catch sight of the Annapurna range is just awe-inspiring as the snow-capped peaks tower above you. You could never tire of that amazing panorama. Other obvious highlights are crossing Thorong La pass at 5,400 metres (it got tough above 5,000 metres!), the sunrise on the top of Poon Hill and the numerous river crossings on suspension bridges. However, I will also take away the warmth of the local people, the great food, the little insights you get into Nepalese village life as you walk through the mountain villages and a better appreciation of the people and their culture. They have far fewer material possessions than people in the UK but seem to smile a lot more – a lesson in there I think. I would recommend this trip to anyone who has a love of mountains and different cultures but don’t wait too long because the ‘development’ of the Annapurna Sanctuary area continues at a pace so the landscape is changing, and not necessarily for the better if you like your trekking without too much traffic.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting to the top of Thorong La pass at 5,400 metres. We got up at 2:30a.m. at around 4,500 metres and set off with head torches for the top of the pass. After a tea stop at 5,000 metres it started to get tough and our group had a collective feeling of relief and achievement when we reached the top of the pass in glorious sunshine. How people climb 8,000 metre peaks without oxygen I do not know. The trek is very well organised inasmuch as you gain altitude slowly in the 8-9 days before Thorong La and so most of the party didn't need Diamox and only had occasional headaches which is quite normal. The sunrise at Poon Hill also deserves a mention as it is absolutely spectacular and not at all arduous compared to Thorong La.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was Tsering Dorjee Sherpa. I've been on numerous organised tours with various travel companies and I can say that Dorjee was one of the best leaders I've had teh pleasure of meeting. He was mature beyound his 23 years, extremely well organised, very passionate about Nepal and his Sherpa heritage and went out of his way to ensure the trip ran smoothly and that everyone enjoyed it. He was ably backed up by other guides and a team of porters, all of whom interacted with our group and collectively we had a great experience. If you're lucky enough to have Dorjee as your guide you will have a great trip and will learn a lot about Nepal, it's people and its culture.

Advice for Potential Travellers

(1) Changing money in Kathmandu - the Himalayan bank will give you a much better rate if you bring new £50 notes. Any used £20 notes were scrutinised and any with writing on, slight rips in etc. were not accepted. It's also difficult to change the Rupees back to Sterling in Kathmandu so leave time to go round a few bureau de change. The rates are pretty similar across the bureaux de change (2) Most of the tea houses have power of some description to charge electrical items (USB or Mains) but power banks to charge phones / camera batteries are useful. Take a bag to put all your batteries in and put it in your sleeping bag at night to prevent them losing charge (3) The Exodus sleeping bags / down jackets tend to be on the heavy and bulky side and as weight/bulk is at a premium it's good to bring your own if you can. We had sleeping bags rated down to -2c (comfort) which were fine coupled with merino baselayers at higher altitudes (4) We had a Steripen, as did a number of our group, and they are the best thing for these types of trips as they probably cost the same as all the chlorine dioxide tablets you would need instead but you don't get the nasty aftertaste of tablets. Be sure to bring spare rechargeable batteries and a fast charger to keep the batteries charged. (5) We bought diamox in Kathmandu (£1 compared with £30 for a private prescription in the UK). We didn't need them in the end but we did use Ibuprofen for the occassional headache. Drinking lots of water is essential and a number of the group thought the garlic soup of the trail may have helped alleviate altitude issues

Amazing adventure

This was the most wonderful trip. Words really can’t describe it. The Himalayas are awesome, the walking wonderful. Going over the tharong la pass was immensely challenging and we all made it. We saw wonderful sights, a baby vulture still with its white down, magnificent mountains, the sun rising over Poon hill, isolated villages where we were welcomed as we walked through, temples and monasteries. The food was freshly cooked throughout. The only down side was that some walking involved going along the road which is being build along the trek. If you’re thinking of going on this trek, I would recommend going sooner rather than later as this road continues to be built. It was lovely walking in the company of like minded people and we had a lot of laughs and supported each other throughout. Gun, our leader and his fellow guides could not have done more. They were kind, supported where needed, acted as nature leaders, made sure we had everything we needed. One final point. This is graded at a level 5 and it feels harder than that. We had 19 days walking, starting usually at 7.30am (usually up by 6.15-30 ….. Gum only let us have an extra 30 mins sleep after crossing the tharong la pass 😀😀) and finishing at 4-5. So in summary. Tough and extraordinarily wonderful !! Go for it.

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole thing. Seeing a baby vulture, the mountains, eating a lovely Dahl baht in a mountain village, the wonderful walking, crossing the tharong la pass, the laughs in the group, the fun. I could go on ......

Thoughts on Group Leader

He could not have done more to make the experience better. He was knowledgable, instilled confidence as we were going over the pass, generous with his time, fun. I have nominated him as a guide of the year.

Advice for Potential Travellers

As I said above I think this trek should be rated higher as it is far harder than others I’ve been on, also rated 5. So get fit as you’re walking for 19 days up / along challenging terrain. We crossed the tharong la pass in snow and it took 11 hours. Don’t get too hung up about toiletries, tablets, loo paper. It can be bought most of the way around. There’s plenty of time when you get to Nepal to change money / get permits.