The Annapurna Circuit trek is the ‘mother’ of trekking routes in Nepal. With excellent lodges, tea houses and tourist infrastructure it is well established to cater for all types of trekker. The high point of the trek is definitely the crossing of the 5414m high Thorong Pass, a crossing into the arid valley of the Upper Manang, home of Tibeto- Buddhists, descending to the Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site of Muktinath, and the Kali Gandaki valley, the world’s deepest river gorge, before heading down to Pokhara.
The trek circles the Annapurna Massif, passing through lush subtropical forests, terraced farmlands, arid high-altitude deserts, and deep river gorges.
Key highlights include crossing the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple, and exploring charming villages like Manang, Pisang. The trek also offers stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuchhre.
Besides the mountain views, the trek passes through a variety of geographical zones with their mountain communities of Gurung, Manangi and Thakali people.
The trek starts right from chame and follows along the Marshyangdi River, with terrific views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. As the trek continues to the north of the main Himalayan range and onto the high and dry Tibetan Plateau, the scenery is equally breath taking. This trek certainly provides all those who travel these trails a deep insight into all aspects of Nepali life and culture.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport where you will be meeting a member of our team and transfer to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and adjust to the city’s pace.
Day 02: A Morning of Guided Sightseeing
Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa, to experience some of Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural richness.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Chame (2,630m)
In the morning, drive from Kathmandu to Chame the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. Enjoy views of the countryside as you pass through small villages and lush landscapes, past waterfalls eventually arriving in Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. The climate will become more alpine, and the landscape starts to change with spectacular mountain views.
Day 04: Trek to Pisang (3,300m)
Continue on the scenic trail, climbing above the Marsyangdi Valley to Pisang. The route is dotted with stunning views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and other towering peaks.
Day 05: Trek to Manang (3,540m)
Trek to Manang, passing through the village of Humde. Manang is a popular stop for trekkers to rest and acclimatize. The town offers great views of the Annapurna range and is a perfect place to explore providing the opportunity to purchase additional snacks.
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Manang
It is very important to take this day to adjust to the altitude. Consider a short hike up to the nearby glaciers or visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic to learn about high-altitude trekking.
Day 7: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,000m)
Trek from Manang towards Yak Kharka. The trail takes you across alpine meadows with yak herders’ settlements, and you’ll notice the terrain becoming more barren as you approach the higher altitudes.
Day 8: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)
Trek through dry and rocky terrain to reach Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the next day’s ascent of the Thorong La Pass. The views of the surrounding peaks are striking as you approach the pass.
Day 9: Trek to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
This is the most challenging day of the trek. You’ll begin very early to cross Thorong La, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit before midday. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, followed by a long descent to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Day 10: Drive to Tatopani (Hot Springs)
After a day of challenging trekking, relax with a drive to Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs. Take a dip to soothe your tired muscles.
Day 11: Trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,834m)
Trek to Ghorepani, a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as you approach the village.
Day 12: Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani (2,520m)
Early morning, hike up to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Afterward, trek to Tadapani, surrounded by rhododendron forests.
Day 13: Trek to Ghandruk and Drive to Pokhara
Trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk, a beautiful Gurung village with traditional stone houses and stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. After a restful stop, drive to Pokhara (2-3 hours) through scenic countryside. In Pokhara, relax by Phewa Lake or explore the vibrant Lakeside area.
Day 14: Fly Back to Kathmandu
Fly back to Kathmandu, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas. Once in Kathmandu, you have the rest of the day free for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Explore Thamel or visit cultural sites like Boudhanath or Swayambhunath before your flight home.
Day 15: Rest day in Kathmandu
The rest of the day free for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Explore Thamel or visit cultural sites like Boudhanath or Swayambhunath before your flight home.
– International flight tickets
– Nepal Visa
-Client’s trek Insurance appropriate to Nepal (including helicopter rescue)
– Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (or other town)
– Laundry and subsistence costs
– Excess baggage costs (to be determined in Kathmandu) Max 10 Kg domestic cargo + 5 Kg hand luggage per person
– Tips and gratuities (discretionary)
– Drinking water / food on trek outside identified meal times
– Showers
– Battery charging costs
– Any costs related to early evacuation from trek (insurance should cover this with the appropriate official documents from Nepal) and all other expenses outside of those identified above are to be met by the clients.
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