Annapurna Circuit Trek

Your journey begins when you land at Tribhuvan International Airport Kathmandu and are received by one of our representatives who will take you to your hotel. After check in , your representative will confirm the reservation, and you will have some time to relax as well as venture onto the busy streets of Thamel which is known as a tourist spot with hundreds of shops, stores, cafes and trekking stores. In the evening, you will have a pre-trek briefing with your guide to go over the itinerary, gather supplies, and answer any lingering questions. Enjoy an overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Kathmandu.

We have an early morning departure from Kathmandu with a drive through the meandering roads of Prithvi highway where you will see Trishuli and Marsyangdi river valleys. Once you reach Besisahar, which is the starting point of Annapurna Circuit, you will change your mode of transport to a more rugged jeep from there onwards it gets drenched in lush forest and traditional village to Chame where you will see the administrative capital of Manang District. The ride itself is unforgettable with the stunning scenery and the first views of Lamjung himal and Annapurna II. Enjoy an overnight stay at a cozy teahouse in Chame.

The trek commences with a leisurely walk through fragrant pine forests, and apple orchards, and it’s a gradual climb towards Pisang. You may take the higher route via Upper Pisang to appreciate dawning views of Annapurna IV and Pisang Peak, or stick to the river lower trail. Upper Pisang is without a doubt the best option as it offers great commanding on the Himalayas and is home to a famous monastery harboring a Tibetan influence located on a hill. Spend the night in a teahouse that offers breathtaking views of the mountains.

The trekset starts from Pisang. The track takes you through the mesmerizing Marsyangdi Valley which has the ancient Braga Monastery, one of the oldest in the region, along the way. The dryland terrain takes over as you near Manang, a beautiful valley town enclosed by towering mountains.

You will catch sight of the stunning Gangapurna Lake, which is formed from melting glaciers. After reaching the destination, spend your day exploring the town, hanging out at the local bakeries known for their apple pies, and easing into the change for altitude. You will spend the night in Manang.

In order to challenge yourself at even higher altitudes, today is dedicated for the purpose of acclimatization. A straightforward journey to Gangapurna Lake or the more challenging Ice Lake (4,600m) assists your body and is beneficial because it helps you appreciate the breathtaking sights. You may also tour the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic to gain insights on the preventive measures concerning altitude sickness which is a common problem. Relax in the evening by having a light meal Manang offers or visit some traditional stone houses and prayer flags which are common sights in the town. Manang will be your stopping point for the night.

During your journey, the trail gradually progresses through Zabrin juniper and alpine meadows where spectacular sights on Annapurna range can be observed. By continuing to rise, the air gets thinner whilst the landscape gets more harsh and rugged; it is common to see yaks and blue sheep on the slopes. It is important to ensure that you are properly acclimatized. There generous supply of basic teahouses makes Yak Kharka an ideal location for stool. Settle for the night in Yak Kharka.

Thorong Phedi can be accessed via a short but steep climb, which is the last stop before crossing the infamous Thorong La Pass. The trail heads along a rocky moraine, providing sights of Annapurna and Dhangari ranges. Hydrate well and rest otherwise the next day’s climb will be an additional challenge. Some trekkers stay at Thorong Phedi while others prefer an additional climb to High Camp (4,800m) in order to shorten the passage, nonetheless staying at Thorong Phedi is recommended. Overnight in a basic lodge.

As always promises to be the most grueling and fulfilling day of this trek. Depart around 4 AM with headlamps, the goal is to reach Thorong La Pass and back by mid-morning. The pass at 5,416m target gives astonishing view of mountains such as Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Nilgiri. After some pictures and prayers as well as selfies at the covered and conquered summit, start descending 1,600m into Kali Gandaki Valley, bereaching the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath by late afternoon. Once you reach Muktinath make sure to visit the temple first. Don’t forget to sleep in Muktinath.

The combination of jeep ride is linked to the pass crossing ‘grueling’ synonym. What is narrator’s grueling ride actually is for the reader the real Kali Gandaki gorge which is in fact the deepest gorge in the world, a glorious landscape for reminiscence! It seems that the route uses the apple based marfar from jomsom. When you arrive at tatopani the hot springs in natural form awaits you for soaking by the river to pamper exhausted muscles! Rest ‘overnights’, at tatopani.

The trail climbs steeply through terraced fields and rhododendron forests, passing through ethnic Magar and Gurung villages like Shikha and Chitre. As you ascend, the air cools, and the views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South become more prominent. Ghorepani, a bustling trekking hub, is your stop for the night. Rest early to prepare for the sunrise hike to Poon Hill the next morning. Overnight in Ghorepani.

The early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 meters above sea level) is probably the most iconic in the whole country. You are greeted by a stunning sunrise that beams across the mountains of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) during the hike. Afterward, the descent is to Ghorepani, where breakfast is served. Then, from there the trail is further downhill via Ulleri and its famous stone staircases and forests, finally reaching Nayapul from where a short drive gets you to Pokhara. In Pokhara, you celebrate the conclusion of your trek with dinner at a lake! Overnight at Pokhara.

You can choose between a 25-minute scenic flight (weather permitting) or a 6-7-hour drive back to Kathmandu. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, while the bus ride follows the winding Trishuli River, passing rural villages and terraced farms. Upon arrival, enjoy a free evening for souvenir shopping or relaxing. Overnight in Kathmandu.

This extra day acts as a buffer for flight delays, weather disruptions, or additional acclimatization. If unused, you can explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO sites like Patan Durbar Square or Swayambhunath Stupa. Alternatively, indulge in a spa day to recover from the trek.

Your Annapurna Circuit adventure concludes with a transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Depart with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, cultural encounters, and personal triumphs.