Leave Kathmandu early this morning and drive to Pokhara. With its lakeside setting beneath the snow-capped Annapurna range, the city is a jumping-off point for the trek ahead. Once part of an important trade route between India and Tibet, the region is home to the Magars, Gurungs and Thakali communities. This afternoon, you’ll have your trek briefing and preparation, and depending on when you arrive, there may be time to hire a small boat for a paddle on the lake. There are also plenty of cafes, shops and stalls. If you need to hire some extra trekking gear, you can find that here, too.