Yak Kharka is a essential stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. Situated at an altitude of approximately 4,020 meters (13,189 feet), it is not a village in the traditional sense, but rather a small collection of basic lodges and teahouses established specifically to accommodate trekkers.

The name "Yak Kharka" translates to "Yak Grazing Ground," which accurately describes its primary function and landscape.

The area consists of open, undulating meadows flanked by rugged Himalayan peaks, where yaks and horses are often seen grazing. For trekkers, it serves as a critical acclimatization stop between the larger village of Manang and the high pass of Thorong La.

The atmosphere is quiet and remote, offering a sense of solitude and raw mountain beauty. Many trekkers appreciate the short, scenic walks available in the afternoon to further aid acclimatization, often noting the clear views of the surrounding peaks like Gangapurna and the Chulu massif.

Yak Kharka At A Glance

Location in Annapurna Circuit

Yak Kharka is located in the Manang District of the Gandaki Province in north-central Nepal. Geographically, it sits on the eastern side of the Annapurna massif.

On the standard Annapurna Circuit map, Yak Kharka falls on the main trail between Manang and Thorong Phedi (also known as Thorong High Camp). The typical trekking route to Yak Kharka is as follows:

• From Manang (3,540m / 11,614ft), the trail heads north, ascending steadily.
• The walk from Manang to Yak Kharka is a relatively short but important gain in altitude, taking most trekkers between 2 to 4 hours.
• After a night at Yak Kharka, trekkers continue upwards to Thorong Phedi (4,525m / 14,842ft) before attempting to cross the Thorong La pass (5,416m / 17,769ft) the following morning.

The climate at this altitude is classified as a high-altitude alpine climate. Days can be sunny and pleasant when the sun is out, but temperatures drop significantly as soon as the sun dips behind the mountains. Nights are cold, often dropping below freezing, and the air is thin and dry.

he area is above the tree line, resulting in a stark, dramatic landscape dominated by rock, ice, and hardy alpine grasses.

Trekking Difficulty & Altitude

Physical Demands of the Trek

The trek to Yak Kharka involves a significant and noticeable increase in physical demand compared to the lower sections of the Annapurna Circuit.

The primary challenges are the sustained ascent, the high altitude, and the cold temperatures. The trail from Manang to Yak Kharka, while not the longest in distance, is a continuous uphill climb.

Trekkers should expect to walk for approximately 3 to 4 hours, gaining about 480 meters (1,575 feet) in elevation. The terrain is a mix of rocky paths and dusty trails, often exposed to the sun and wind.

The combination of the steep incline and the thin air at over 4,000 meters makes this section physically taxing, requiring a slow, steady pace.

Steep Trail Sections

The path from Manang to Yak Kharka includes several steep and sustained sections. After leaving Manang, the trail descends briefly to cross the Jarsang Khola river on a bridge. Following this crossing, the ascent begins in earnest.

The climb is consistent and can feel relentless due to the altitude. One of the more challenging parts is a steep, switchbacking section that leads up the valley wall away from the river.

The trail is generally well-defined but is narrow in places with loose scree underfoot, requiring careful footing.

Altitude Acclimatization

Altitude awareness is critical when trekking to Yak Kharka. At 4,020 meters (13,189 ft), the air contains roughly 60% of the oxygen found at sea level. Yak Kharka itself is not a final destination but a strategically important altitude acclimatization stop.

Spending a night here helps the body adapt to the thinner air before ascending further to Thorong Phedi (4,525m) and Thorong La pass (5,416m).

The key to acclimatization is a slow, gradual ascent. It is strongly recommended to have spent at least two nights in Manang (3,540m) before proceeding to Yak Kharka.

A common acclimatization practice in Manang is to take a day hike to a higher elevation, such as Ice Lake or Milarepa's Cave, and then return to sleep at the lower altitude.

Risks of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)

Trekkers must be aware of the symptoms of AMS, which can include headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, and severe fatigue. It is essential to communicate any symptoms to your guide or trekking partners. The only cure for advancing AMS is to descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Acclimatization Methods and Preparation

• Ascend Slowly: Do not increase your sleeping altitude by more than 300-500 meters per day once above 3,000 meters.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water per day.
• Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives: These can worsen the effects of altitude.
• Listen to Your Body: Do not push through severe symptoms of AMS.

For context, the altitude gain on this section is significant:

• Manang: 3,540 meters (11,614 ft)
• Yak Kharka: 4,020 meters (13,189 ft)
• Thorong Phedi: 4,525 meters (14,842 ft)

Gear Suggestions for Cold Weather

Temperatures at Yak Kharka, especially at night, are cold and often fall below freezing. Essential gear includes:

• A high-quality, insulated down or synthetic jacket.
• A thermal base layer system (wool or synthetic).
• An insulated hat, gloves, and a buff or neck gaiter.
• A four-season, well-insulated sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C (14°F).
• Trekking poles to reduce strain on knees during the steep descents and ascents.

Proper physical preparation, a conservative itinerary, and the right gear are the most effective ways to manage the trekking difficulty and altitude on the approach to Yak Kharka.

Weather & Seasonal Information (Best Time To Visit Yak Kharka)

Seasonal Weather Overview of Yak Kharka

The weather in Yak Kharka is characterized by its high-altitude alpine conditions. Due to its elevation of 4,020 meters, temperatures are consistently cool to cold throughout the year, with significant variation between day and night.

The area experiences distinct seasonal shifts that directly impact trail conditions and the trekking experience.

Spring (March to May)

This season marks the end of winter. Daytime temperatures can be pleasant, ranging from 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F) when the sun is out.

Nights remain cold, typically between -5°C and 5°C (23°F to 41°F). This period generally has stable weather with clear skies in the morning, though afternoon cloud build-up is common. Snow from the winter melts, and the trails become clearer.

Autumn (October to November)

This is the post-monsoon period. Days are generally clear and stable, with daytime temperatures similar to spring, around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).

Nights begin to get colder, especially in November, often dropping to -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F). The air is typically dry, and visibility is excellent, offering unobstructed mountain views.

Winter (December to February)

Conditions are severe. Daytime temperatures often struggle to get above freezing, and nighttime temperatures can plummet to -15°C (5°F) or lower.

The trail can be covered in snow and ice, making trekking technically more challenging and requiring specialized gear like microspikes. Many teahouses may be closed.

Monsoon (June to September)

The trek to Yak Kharka is generally not advised during this time. While the Annapurna region is in a rain shadow, meaning it receives less rain than southern Nepal, the trails can be muddy and slippery.

Cloudy skies frequently obscure the mountain views, and leeches can be present in lower sections of the circuit.

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

• Peak Seasons: The autumn months of October and November are the busiest trekking periods. The spring months of April and May are also very popular, forming a second peak season. During these times, the weather is most reliable, and all lodges are open, though trails and teahouses can be crowded.
• Off-Peak Seasons: The monsoon (June-September) and the heart of winter (January-February) are considered off-peak. Trekking during these periods presents significant challenges due to weather, trail conditions, and limited services.

Ideal Trekking Seasons

• The ideal trekking seasons for Yak Kharka are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November).
• October and November are considered the absolute peak months due to the stable, dry weather and exceptionally clear skies. The air is crisp, and the visibility for mountain scenery is at its best.
• Spring (March to May) offers warmer days compared to autumn and the chance to see rhododendron forests in bloom at lower elevations. While there is a higher chance of afternoon clouds and occasional precipitation, the weather is generally very good for trekking.

Clothing and Gear Recommendations

• Spring/Autumn: Essential to have layered clothing. A base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece/down jacket), and a windproof/waterproof outer shell are crucial. Thermal underwear, a warm hat, and gloves are necessary for the cold nights. Sturdy, broken-in waterproof hiking boots are required.
• Winter: All of the above, plus a heavy-duty insulated jacket, a four-season sleeping bag, and potentially traction devices for boots (microspikes).
• Footwear: Regardless of season, waterproof, ankle-supporting trekking boots are non-negotiable.

Trek Itinerary & Routes

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka

This is the most common approach to Yak Kharka. The segment from Manang to Yak Kharka is a short but important acclimatization leg.

• Starting Point: Manang (3,540 meters / 11,614 feet)
• Ending Point: Yak Kharka (4,020 meters / 13,189 feet)
• Distance: Approximately 4-5 kilometers.
• Elevation Gain: +480 meters (+1,575 feet).
• Estimated Walking Time: 3 to 4 hours at a slow, steady pace to aid acclimatization.
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate, due entirely to the altitude gain.

The trail leaves Manang and descends slightly to cross the Jarsang Khola river on a wooden bridge. After the bridge, a sustained and steady ascent begins up the valley wall. The path is a clear, rocky trail that switchbacks in some sections.

The terrain is exposed, with no tree cover, offering expansive views back towards Manang and the Gangapurna Lake.

The main attraction is the gradual immersion into the high Himalayan landscape, with views of the Annapurna massif. The destination, Yak Kharka, becomes visible across the valley as you ascend.

Trek from Ghorepani to Yak Kharka

A trek from Ghorepani to Yak Kharka is not a direct route but represents a longer, multi-day approach as part of the full Annapurna Circuit. This itinerary involves crossing the Thorong La pass from the west.

Overview: This is a longer, more demanding itinerary that traverses the entire circuit. Ghorepani is on the Poon Hill route, west of the main Annapurna massif, while Yak Kharka is on the eastern side. Connecting them requires going over the Thorong La pass.

Typical Itinerary (Western Approach to Yak Kharka)

Day 1: Ghorepani (2,874m) to Tatopani (1,190m) - long descent.

Day 2: Tatopani to Ghasa (2,010m) - gradual climb.

Day 3: Ghasa to Marpha (2,670m) in the Kali Gandaki Valley.

Day 4: Drive/Trek from Marpha to Manang via the Jeep road (this is a long travel day, often done by vehicle).

Day 5: Acclimatization day in Manang.

Day 6: Manang to Yak Kharka (as described above).

Difficulty: This is a very long and logistically complex route that covers diverse terrain and requires vehicle transport for sections. It is only recommended for trekkers with ample time and a well-planned itinerary.

Trekking to Thorong High Camp

The primary purpose of staying at Yak Kharka is to break up the ascent to Thorong High Camp (also known as Thorong Phedi).

Route: Yak Kharka to Thorong High Camp.
Distance: Approximately 3-4 kilometers.
Elevation Gain: +505 meters (+1,656 feet).
Estimated Walking Time: 2 to 3 hours.
Difficulty Rating: Moderate to Strenuous, due to the high altitude and steep final section.

The trail from Yak Kharka continues ascending the Marshyangdi Valley. It is a relatively gentle climb initially, crossing a stream and traversing the mountainside. The path then descends slightly to cross the Jarsang Khola one final time at Thorong Phedi (4,425m), where there are a few lodges.

From Thorong Phedi, a very steep and rugged trail climbs directly up the moraine to Thorong High Camp (4,525m), which is the last settlement before the pass.

Many trekkers choose to stay at Thorong Phedi for a slightly lower altitude sleep, while others push to High Camp to shorten the pass-crossing day.

This stretch is challenging, with a thin atmosphere and often cold, windy conditions.

Travel Logistics & Preparation

How to Reach Yak Kharka

Yak Kharka is not accessible by road or air. It is a trekking stop only, reached on foot from Manang. Therefore, all travel logistics involve reaching the trek starting points that lead to Yak Kharka. The most common gateway is the lakeside city of Pokhara.

From Pokhara to the Trailhead
The two main starting points for the Annapurna Circuit that lead to Yak Kharka are Besisahar (for the classic trek) and Chame (for a shorter itinerary, reached by jeep).

By Road to Besisahar

• Local Bus: Departs from Pokhara's Baglung Bus Park. The journey to Besisahar takes approximately 4-5 hours. This is the most economical option but can be crowded.
• Tourist Bus: More comfortable, reserved seating buses that go directly to Besisahar. The journey takes 3-4 hours.
• Private Jeep: Can be hired for a direct and faster journey to Besisahar or further to Bhulbhule or Syange, saving 1-2 trekking days.

By Road to Chame (Shortened Itinerary)

• Local Bus/Jeep: From Pokhara, you can take a bus to Besisahar and then change to a local jeep for the rugged road journey to Chame (2,710m). The total travel time is 7-9 hours.
• Direct Private Jeep: Hiring a private jeep from Pokhara directly to Chame is the fastest land option, taking 6-8 hours. This bypasses the lower, road-affected trekking sections.

By Air and Road

A flight can be taken from Pokhara to Jomsom. From Jomsom, you can hire a jeep to drive east over the Thorong La pass road (seasonal and very rough) to Manang. This is a less common and more expensive reverse-circuit approach.

Transport Options in the Annapurna Circuit

Understanding the transport network is key for planning and emergency contingencies.

• Local Buses: Operate on fixed schedules between major towns like Pokhara, Besisahar, and Besishahar to Chame. They are inexpensive but can be slow and crowded.
• Tourist Buses: More comfortable and reliable for the Pokhara to Besisahar leg.
• Jeeps: Shared or private jeeps are available from Besisahar to various points further up the valley, including Ngadi, Jagat, Dharapani, Timang, Koto, and Chame. This allows trekkers to skip sections of the trek that now follow a dirt road.
• Flights: The only airstrip in the region suitable for fixed-wing aircraft is in Jomsom, which is on the other side of the Thorong La pass from Yak Kharka.

Trekking Gear and Safety Preparation

Proper preparation is essential for safety and comfort.

Trekking Gear Essentials

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof, and well-broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are the most critical item.
• Clothing: A layering system is mandatory.
• Base Layer: Moisture-wicking thermal top and bottoms (synthetic or wool).
• Mid Layer: Insulating fleece or down jacket.
• Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
• Accessories: Insulated hat, gloves, buff or neck gaiter, sunglasses with UV protection, and a headlamp with extra batteries.
• Backpack: A 30-40 liter daypack if using a porter, or a 50-70 liter pack if carrying your own gear.
• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended to reduce strain on knees during steep descents and ascents.

Safety Preparation

• First-Aid Kit: Should include blister treatment (moleskin, Compeed), antiseptic wipes, bandages, pain relievers, and any personal medication. Include medication for AMS (Acetazolamide/Diamox) after consulting a doctor.
• Water Purification: Water bottles and a reliable purification method (iodine/chlorine tablets, UV sterilizer, or a quality filter) to avoid single-use plastics.
• Travel Insurance: Must explicitly cover emergency high-altitude helicopter evacuation up to 6,000 meters and trekking in Nepal.

Hiring a Guide or Porter

• Guide: A licensed guide provides navigation, handles permits and lodging in peak season, offers cultural insights, and is trained in high-altitude first aid. This is highly recommended for novice trekkers or those trekking solo.
• Porter: Porters can carry the bulk of your luggage (typically up to 15-20 kg), allowing you to trek with only a light daypack. This significantly reduces physical strain and improves acclimatization.
• Choosing Services: Always hire through a reputable, government-licensed trekking agency like Trek Me Nepal. This ensures fair wages, proper insurance, and equipment for the staff.

Trekking Permits, Costs & Booking

Required Permits for Yak Kharka

All trekkers entering the Annapurna Circuit must obtain two permits. These are checked at official checkpoints along the trail.

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Purpose: This permit is required for entry into the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Where to Obtain: The permit can be acquired in Kathmandu at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) office in Bhrikuti Mandap or at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Pokhara. It must be obtained in person by the trekker, presenting your passport and visa.

Cost (subject to change)

• For most foreign nationals: NPR 3,000 per person (approximately USD $23).
• For SAARC nationals: NPR 1,000 per person.
• Required Documents: Passport, copy of passport photo page, Nepali visa, passport-sized photos (typically two), and completed application form.

Trekker Information Management System (TIMS) Card

Purpose: The TIMS card is a registration system designed for trekker safety.

Where to Obtain: The same offices as the ACAP permit: Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu or Pokhara, or the TAAN (Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal) office.

Cost

• Independent Trekkers (Free Individual Trekkers - FIT): NPR 2,000 per person.
• Trekker with a Licensed Guide/Agency (Organized Trekkers - G): NPR 1,000 per person.

Required Documents: Same as for ACAP.

For more details on Annapurna Circuit Trekking Permits, check out our blog here. 

Cost Breakdown for the Trek

The total cost of a trek to Yak Kharka varies significantly based on style (independent vs. guided) and comfort level. Below is an approximate daily breakdown for an independent trekker.

• Permits: ACAP (NPR 3,000) + TIMS (NPR 2,000) = NPR 5,000 (one-time cost).
• Food and Lodging (Per Day at Yak Kharka):
  
  • Lodging: NPR 300 - NPR 500 per night for a basic room. It is often expected that you will also eat dinner and breakfast at the same lodge.
  • Food: Meals become more expensive with altitude. A dal bhat (lentils and rice) can cost NPR 600 - NPR 900. A simple tea costs NPR 150 - NPR 300. Budget NPR 2,000 - NPR 3,500 per day for full board.
• Transportation (One-way to Trailhead):
  Tourist Bus (Pokhara to Besisahar): NPR 800 - NPR 1,200.
  Shared Jeep (Besisahar to Chame): NPR 3,000 - NPR 4,500.
• Guide/Porter Fees (Optional but Recommended):
  Guide: USD $25 - $35 per day.
  Porter: USD $20 - $25 per day (carries up to 20kg of luggage for two trekkers).
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Bottled water (not recommended), snacks, battery charging (NPR 200 - NPR 500 per hour), Wi-Fi (NPR 300 - NPR 600 per day), and hot showers (NPR 400 - NPR 700). Budget NPR 500 - NPR 1,500 per day.

Lodging and Booking Options

• Lodge Conditions in Yak Kharka: Accommodation is basic. Rooms typically contain two single beds with a thin mattress, a pillow, and a blanket. Toilets are usually shared squat toilets located outside the main building. There are no heated rooms. The common dining room is the only heated space, typically warmed by a central stove burning yak dung or wood.
• Booking Accommodation: Pre-booking lodges in Yak Kharka is generally not necessary or possible for independent trekkers, except during the peak seasons (October-November). During these busy times, having a guide is advantageous as they can call ahead to secure rooms. For peace of mind and guaranteed lodging, especially in a large group, it is advisable to book through a tour operator.
• Working with a Tour Operator: A reputable tour operator handles all logistics: airport transfers, hotel bookings in cities, permit acquisition, transportation to the trailhead, guide and porter arrangements, and lodge bookings along the entire trek. This provides a seamless, stress-free experience. They can also create customized itineraries that suit your pace and interests.

Cultural & Local Insights

Local Culture and Village Life

Yak Kharka is not a permanent village with a resident population but a seasonal settlement. The few lodges are operated by people from lower villages in the Manang region, primarily of Tibetan (Bhotia) and Gurung ethnicity.

The culture here is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, which is evident in the daily life and practices of the lodge owners and herders.

The local economy is almost entirely dependent on trekking tourism and high-altitude animal husbandry. The lodge staff's daily routine involves tasks like fetching water, preparing meals for trekkers, and managing supplies that are brought up by donkey or mule trains.

The social atmosphere is quiet and functional, centered around the needs of trekkers acclimatizing for the pass.

Yak Herding Tradition

The name "Yak Kharka" directly points to its primary function as a grazing ground for yaks. Yak and dzopkio (a yak-cow hybrid) herding is a traditional and essential economic activity in this high-altitude region.

Herders, often from nearby villages like Manang or Khangsar, bring their animals to these pastures during the grazing season.

The animals are crucial for transportation of goods, providing milk, and their dung. Yak dung is collected, dried, and used as the primary fuel for heating the lodges' dining rooms and for cooking, as there is no other source of fuel at this altitude.

Trekkers will often see yaks and dzopkios grazing freely on the slopes around Yak Kharka. Interactions with herders are usually brief but respectful; it is important to give grazing animals a wide berth and not to block trails when herds are being moved.

Traditional Architecture in Yak Kharka

The architecture of the lodges in Yak Kharka is purely functional and adapted to the harsh environment. Buildings are low-lying, single or double-story structures made of stone, with timber used for roof supports and interior frames. The roofs are typically flat or slightly sloped, weighted down with stones to withstand high winds.

A key feature of these buildings is their inward-facing design, with small windows to conserve heat and protect from the cold. The ground floor is often used for storage or animal shelter, while the upper floor contains the guest rooms and the communal dining hall.

The dining hall is the central, and only, heated room in the lodge, invariably decorated with simple Tibetan Buddhist motifs, such as prayer flags strung outside or faded thangka paintings inside.

Sustainable Trekking Practices and Etiquette

• Respecting Local Norms: Dress modestly. When visiting a monastery or stupa, always walk clockwise.
• Photography Etiquette: Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially herders and lodge staff.
• Environmental Care: Do not litter. Carry all non-biodegradable waste back down to lower altitudes for proper disposal. Use water purification tablets or filters instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
• Resource Awareness: Be mindful that all resources—food, fuel, and building materials—are transported here with great effort. Conserve energy and water.

Nearby Destinations & Extensions

Trekking to Thorong High Camp

The primary and most logical extension from Yak Kharka is the trek to Thorong High Camp (also known as Thorong Phedi).

• Distance from Yak Kharka: Approximately 3-4 kilometers.
• Elevation Gain: +505 meters (+1,656 feet), from 4,020m at Yak Kharka to 4,525m at Thorong High Camp.
• Estimated Walking Time: 2 to 3 hours.
• Trail Features: The trail continues ascending the Marshyangdi Valley. It is a steady climb on a rocky path, followed by a steep, rugged descent to the river crossing at Lower Phedi (4,425m). The final section to High Camp is a very steep and strenuous climb up a moraine ridge.
• Reason for the Extension: This is not an optional side trip but the main route towards crossing the Thorong La pass (5,416m). Trekkers stay here to acclimatize further and position themselves for an early morning start to cross the pass.

Exploring the Manang Region

The Manang region, which trekkers pass through before reaching Yak Kharka, offers several notable acclimatization day hikes and cultural sites.

• Manang Village (3,540m): The main settlement in the region, located approximately 2-3 hours downhill from Yak Kharka. It features a small airstrip, several bakeries, shops, and the historic Barge Monastery (Gompa), one of the largest in the district.
• Ice Lake (Kicho Tal) (4,600m): A demanding but rewarding day hike from Manang. The trail gains over 1,000 meters in elevation, offering panoramic views of the Annapurna range. It is a strenuous acclimatization hike, taking 6-8 hours round trip from Manang.
• Milarepa's Cave (4,000m): A sacred cave site associated with the Tibetan yogi Milarepa. The hike from Braga village (near Manang) is less strenuous than the Ice Lake trek and provides cultural and historical context, taking 3-4 hours round trip.

Other Nearby Attractions

• Tilicho Lake (4,919m): One of the highest lakes in the world. This is a major side trip that typically adds 2-3 days to the itinerary.
• Access: The turn-off is at Khangsar village, before reaching Manang. From the Tilicho Base Camp, a steep trail leads to the lake.
• Connection: Trekkers can rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit trail either by returning to Manang or via the high and challenging Mesokanto La pass.
• Gangapurna Lake: A glacial lake located at the foot of Gangapurna Mountain, easily visible from Manang and on the trail towards Yak Kharka. It is a short walk from Manang village to a closer viewpoint.

These destinations are all integral parts of the Annapurna Circuit route. Choosing these extensions allows trekkers to experience a more comprehensive and diverse journey through the high Himalayas, from cultural centers in the Manang Valley to the extreme alpine environments near Thorong La and Tilicho Lake.

Tips & FAQs

Packing Checklist

Fitness and Health Preparation

Training: Begin a training regimen at least 2-3 months in advance. Focus on cardiovascular exercises (running, cycling, swimming) and leg strength (squats, lunges). Include hikes with a loaded backpack on steep, uneven terrain.

Health Precautions: Consult a doctor about vaccinations and discuss altitude sickness medication (Acetazolamide/Diamox). A dental check-up before travel is also recommended.

Safety and Hydration Tips

• Hydration: Drink 3-4 liters of water per day. Dehydration worsens altitude sickness. Always use purified water.
• Pacing: Walk slowly ("pole pole") and maintain a steady pace you can sustain without becoming breathless. There is no benefit to rushing.
• Nutrition: Eat a high-carbohydrate diet. Consume regular meals, even if appetite decreases at altitude.
• Emergency Contacts: Save the local emergency numbers and the contact information of your country's embassy in Kathmandu. Ensure your travel insurance emergency hotline number is accessible.
• Communication: Mobile network (Ncell) is unreliable. Satellite phones or local satellite messenger services are the most reliable for emergency communication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the accommodation like in Yak Kharka?

Accommodation is very basic. Lodges offer shared twin rooms with a simple bed, mattress, and blanket. Toilets are external, shared squat toilets. The dining room is the only communal heated space.

2. Is Yak Kharka only a stopover, or can I stay longer?

Yak Kharka is primarily a strategic acclimatization stopover for one night before moving higher towards Thorong Phedi. There are no activities or reasons to stay for multiple nights, and it is not advised due to the altitude.

3. What happens if I get symptoms of AMS at Yak Kharka?

The standard and only effective protocol is "climb high, sleep low." If you experience mild symptoms, do not ascend further. If symptoms are severe (persistent vomiting, loss of coordination, severe headache), you must descend immediately to Manang (a lower altitude). Do not wait.

4. Can I get Wi-Fi or charge my electronics in Yak Kharka?

Yes, but for a fee and with limitations. Most lodges offer paid Wi-Fi (NPR 300-600 per day) and charging (NPR 200-500 per hour). The connection is often slow and unreliable, and power may be available only at certain times.

5. Are the permits checked specifically at Yak Kharka?

No, there is no checkpoint in Yak Kharka itself. Your ACAP and TIMS permits will be checked at official checkpoints in places like Dharapani or Chame before you reach Yak Kharka, and sometimes after the Thorong La pass.

Book your Annapurna Trek or Upper Mustang Trek, which includes the Yak Kharka, with Trek Me Nepal. We have many standard packages you can choose from including our 14 Days Annapurna Circuit Trek and 16 Days Annapurna Complete Circuit Trek . We can also customise your trek according to your personal needs.

Bipin Thapa

Operation Manager | Official Trekking Guide

Anyone who has trekked before knows trekking requires planning, and a deep understanding of the land. That is where Bipin Thapa Magar comes in. As the Operations Manager at Trek Me Nepal, he is the ba... Read More