Annapurna Circuit Trek

Upon landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will facilitate your transfer to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in and settled, you have the option to either explore the lively Thamel area or relax in preparation for your upcoming trek. In the evening, you’ll meet with your guide for a briefing about the trek, and they will assist with any necessary gear. Overnight accommodation in Kathmandu.

Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, followed by a bus ride to Besisahar, and then a shared jeep to Dharapani. This scenic route offers captivating views of waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and numerous suspension bridges, enhancing your Annapurna Circuit experience. As you follow the Marsayangdi River, you’ll pass through charming villages including Ngadi, Bahundanda, Syange, Jagat, Chamje, and Tal before reaching Dharapani. Upon arrival, ensure that you complete the necessary registration and permit formalities at the local police checkpoint.

Today’s trek takes you into the higher-altitude terrain of the Annapurna Circuit, where the temperature becomes cooler and the landscape shifts dramatically. The trail leads through scenic alpine landscapes and passes through villages like Bagarchhap and Danakyu, heavily influenced by Tibetan culture and surrounded by dense forests. Along the way, you’ll walk through expansive pine forests, terraced farmlands, and catch striking views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II, famous for their apple orchards.
The route continues through the beautiful settlements of Timang, Thanchowk, and Koto, where it intersects with the Naar-Phu Valley trek, adding cultural diversity to your journey. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Chame, the bustling district headquarters of Manang. This popular stop offers trekkers a range of amenities including guesthouses, internet cafes, trekking gear shops, banks, and more. The entrance to Chame is marked by a large mani wall, adorned with prayer wheels, setting a spiritual tone as you prepare to rest for the night.

Departing from Chame, the trail weaves through a serene pine and rhododendron forest, nestled within a narrow gorge of towering cliffs. As you ascend, the trail reveals rugged mountain views, including the dramatic slopes of Pangdi Danda and Swargadwari Danda. One of the day’s highlights is crossing the Marshyangdi River via a suspension bridge, an exhilarating part of the trek.
You’ll pass through quaint villages such as Talekhu and Bhratang before arriving at Dhikur Pokhari, a peaceful spot that offers sweeping views of towering peaks like Annapurna II, Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, and Tilicho Peak. The landscape continues to impress as you cross another suspension bridge, leading you towards Upper Pisang.
Upper Pisang offers spectacular panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, with landmarks such as Kuntu Danda, Longyo Danda, and Pisang Peak dominating the skyline. As you reach higher altitudes, the thinning air might challenge some trekkers, so it’s essential to pace yourself and fully embrace the breathtaking mountain scenery.

Today’s trek is one of the more demanding segments of the Annapurna Circuit, featuring steep ascents and winding trails as you journey from Upper Pisang through Ghyaru and Ngawal. This high-altitude route offers breathtaking views of some of the Himalayas’ most celebrated peaks, including Lamjung Himal (6,983m), Annapurna II (7,937m), Annapurna III (7,555m), Annapurna IV (7,525m), Gandarbha Chuli (6,250m), Khangsar Kang (6,091m), Gangapurna (7,544m), and Glacier Dome (7,193m).
As you climb, the air grows colder and drier, reflecting the rugged beauty of the high-altitude terrain. You’ll have the opportunity to experience Tibetan Buddhist culture as you pass through traditional Tibetan villages. The trek will also take you through the charming village of Munchi and the serene hamlet of Braga, known for its tranquil atmosphere.
The day concludes in Manang Bazaar, the largest settlement along the Annapurna Circuit. Here, you’ll find all the essential amenities, including comfortable lodges, internet cafes, shops for trekking gear, banks, and healthcare facilities. Don’t miss the famous Barge Monastery, the largest in the region, which offers a glimpse into the area’s rich Buddhist heritage. Buddhist shrines scattered throughout Manang enhance the spiritual ambiance of this Himalayan town.

Acclimatization is key to adjusting to the high altitude, even for experienced trekkers. Today is set aside for rest and acclimatization in Manang, allowing your body to adapt to the thinner air. You can take short hikes to nearby viewpoints such as Gangapurna Lake or visit local monasteries to learn about the region’s unique culture. This rest day is crucial for preparing for the challenging ascent to Thorong La Pass. Overnight stay in Manang.

Leaving Manang, your trek ascends towards the settlement of Tengi. After crossing a bubbling spring, the trail climbs out of the Marshyangdi Valley and heads northwest into the Jarsang Khola valley. As you continue north, the path gradually gains altitude, passing through meadows and patches of juniper scrub.

You’ll encounter the small settlement of Ghusang, known for its rustic, mud-roofed buildings, before moving through yak and horse grazing pastures, also known as Yak Kharka. Crossing a historic Mani wall in a tranquil meadow and traversing a small river via a wooden bridge, you’ll eventually reach the charming hamlet of Ledar. Nestled in peaceful mountain surroundings, Ledar offers a perfect spot to rest and prepare for the next phase of your Annapurna Circuit adventure.

Today’s trek will lead you to either Thorung Phedi or Thorung High Camp, key staging points before the Thorung La Pass crossing. The hike typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on weather conditions and your physical readiness. The terrain becomes increasingly challenging at these higher altitudes, with the possibility of harsh winds and snowfall impacting your progress. It’s crucial to hike cautiously, following your guide’s advice and pacing yourself appropriately.
Thorung Phedi offers only a few basic tea houses, in contrast to the more developed lower regions of the Annapurna Circuit. The environment here is stark and rocky, with sparse vegetation compared to the lush landscapes you’ve experienced earlier in the trek. If you’re feeling fit and not overly fatigued, you might consider continuing an additional 1 to 2 hours to reach Thorung High Camp. This option can help make the ascent over Thorung La Pass the next day somewhat easier.
Proper preparation and a steady pace will ensure a safe and successful trek through these high-altitude regions of the Annapurna Circuit.

Today is a long and exhilarating day, starting before dawn as you embark on the ascent to Thorung La Pass, the highest point of your Annapurna Circuit trek at 5416 meters. Whether you’ve stayed at Thorung Phedi or Thorung High Camp, you’ll tackle a steep climb to reach this challenging summit. From Thorung La Pass, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, Thorong Peak, Dhaulagiri Range, Nilgiri, and other surrounding peaks. Take some time to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and capture the moment before beginning your descent.
The trail descends gradually from Thorung La Pass towards Muktinath, passing through diverse landscapes and shifting scenery. Muktinath is a revered pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its sacred temple complex. Highlights include the two small ponds and 108 water spouts, which are believed to cleanse pilgrims of past sins. Adjacent to these sacred waters is the Dhola Mebar Gompa (Jwalamai Temple), where a natural gas flame burns continuously behind a protective grill.
After visiting the Muktinath Temple and soaking in its spiritual ambiance, return to your lodge for breakfast. From there, continue your journey to Jomsom, passing through picturesque villages such as Jharkot, Kagbeni, and Ekle Bhatti. Jomsom, known for its strong winds, serves as the administrative center of Mustang District and adds a unique element to your trek.

Jomsom, situated along the Kali Gandaki River, is a key hub for treks to Muktinath and Upper Mustang. Early this morning, head to Jomsom Airport for your flight to Pokhara. Due to the area’s notorious winds, flights are scheduled in the morning, as conditions can become challenging after 10 am.
The scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara lasts about 30 to 40 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the landscapes below, including routes to Tatopani and Ghorepani, and uninterrupted vistas of the Annapurna Himalayas. This flight provides a fitting conclusion to your Himalayan adventure.
Upon arrival in Pokhara, you have the rest of the day to relax and explore. Consider taking a boat ride on Phewa Lake, visiting the International Mountain Museum, or enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Lakeside. Overnight stay in Pokhara.

After breakfast, embark on the drive back to Kathmandu, retracing your route through scenic rural landscapes and small towns. Once in Kathmandu, you’ll have time to shop for souvenirs or explore additional cultural landmarks. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner with your guide and trekking team to celebrate the successful completion of your Annapurna Circuit trek. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

As your incredible Annapurna Circuit trek concludes, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. We bid you farewell, wishing you safe travels and hoping to welcome you back for future Himalayan adventures. May you carry wonderful memories of your trek with you. Safe travels!