Annapurna Trail & Ice Lake Trek

Nov 11, 2025 | Blogs, Travel Blog

Travel Diaries

Annapurna Trail & Ice Lake Trek — November 15–22, 2025

After completing the Everest Base Camp Trek (5,364 m / 17,598 ft) in April 2024, I’m thrilled to begin my next Himalayan chapter — the Annapurna Trail & Ice Lake Trek in Nepal.

This journey explores the spectacular Manang Valley (approx. 3,500 m / 11,483 ft), with acclimatization hikes reaching up to 3,683 m / 12,083 ft, culminating at the breathtaking Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) — a turquoise alpine lake nestled amid towering peaks at 4,559 m / 14,957 ft.

Trek Itinerary

📅 Dates: November 15–22, 2025
📍 Route Overview:
Kathmandu → Helicopter to Chame → Acclimatization hikes in the Manang Valley → Ice Lake summit day → Return heli to Kathmandu

Why This Trek?

  • Peak Clarity Season:
    November offers crystal-clear skies and panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Gangapurna — among the most stunning in the Himalayas.

  • Iconic Destination:
    Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) shimmers like a sapphire set within a cirque of snow-clad peaks — a serene yet invigorating trekking goal.

  • Balanced Acclimatization:
    A thoughtfully paced route through monasteries, lakes, and ridgelines around Manang ensures both comfort and gradual altitude adaptation.

Fitness & Preparation

As an interventional cardiologist, I live by the principles I share with patients — discipline, balance, and consistency in health and fitness.

At 67, my training remains simple yet sustainable:

  • Cardio: 60–90 minutes daily on the treadmill

  • Strength: 45–60 minutes of multigym work (weights, biceps, core, and functional strength)

I’ve followed this regimen for over a decade — not to chase records, but to maintain joint health, vitality, and the joy of movement.

Through this trek, I hope to inspire others — especially peers in my age group — to cultivate a steady, mindful, and active lifestyle built on daily movement, conscious breath, and steady progress.

Follow Along

Starting November 15, I’ll share daily updates and photos from the trail —
sunrises over Manang, ancient cliffside gompas, tranquil lakes, and the final climb toward Ice Lake’s turquoise beauty.

Join me on this journey through one of Nepal’s most inspiring landscapes.

📸 #Annapurna #IceLake #Manang #Himalaya #Nepal #Trekking #Adventure #EBC