Annapurna Circuit Trek

Early in the morning, you’ll meet your guide plus porter and start your journey to the Annapurna Circuit by taxi, heading to the Gongabhu New Bus Park station to catch a bus to Besisahar. Travelling distance between Kathmandu and Besisahar is approximately 174.5 kilometers (108.43 miles).

As you drive, you’ll have some of the stunning views of snow-capped mountains ad green valleys. Upon reaching Besisahar, you’ll transfer to a local bus or jeep (on a shared basis) for the remaining journey to Nagdi village, passing through Bulbule Lodges. In total, the drive takes about 8 to 9 hours and is an adventure in itself. You’ll stay overnight at a local guest house in Nagdi village.

Trekking from Nagdi village to Chame takes you on a fascinating journey, with the first leg being a hike to Syange Bazaar. At an elevation of 3,510 feet, Syange treats trekkers to a mesmerizing waterfall.

As the trek progresses, you’ll traverse the suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River and trace its course until reaching Jagat. From there, the trail ascends to Chamje, offering a mix of natural beauty and challenging terrain.

Starting from Chamje, our trail leads towards Bagarchap, initiating the hiking through rocky mountain paths that run alongside the Marshyangdi Tributary. Ascends persistently, eventually reaching Tal at an elevation of 1,675 meters, marks the first village of the Manang district. It proceeds with a traverse across a spacious, level gorge.

Continue the trail with a series of undulating terrain, ultimately arriving at the village of Dharapani situated at 2,200 feet. Bagarchhap, situated at an impressive altitude of 7,085 feet, stands as a village influenced by Tibetan culture. Here, local Tibetans have crafted distinctive residence surrounded by apple orchards and maize fields, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

After crossing the river, we continue our hike through the forest, eventually arriving at Kopar Lodge (2,590m), from where the guesthouses of Chame come into view. As the headquarters of the Manang district, Chame grant stunning views of Annapurna II as you approach the bustling Chame Bazaar. Upon reaching Chame, visitors can further unwind with a walk to the natural hot springs, where trekkers can relax taking a hot bath.

Along with this travel route, explore the local community said to have migrated from Tibet a long time in the past, noticeable by their different features. With them, they have bought local Tibetan house designs and maintained their ways.

In addition, Chame is a gateway to exploring Kajin Sara Lake which is situated at an altitude of 5,200 meters, said to have the highest lake in the world.

Hike to Pisang today unfolds amidst a dense forest within a rugged and thin valley. Our path leads across a lengthy bridge that spans a river. As we traverse this bridge and advance, the rugged countenance of Paungda Danda’s rock formation comes into view, marking the kickoff of a remarkable ascent to Pisang.

As we continue our steady ascent, a trail to Pisang gradually unfolds, revealing stunning landscapes along the way. Upper Pisang emerges invitingly, encouraging trekkers to venture further to higher elevations. Here, visitors will have an opportunity to experience the distinctive way of life of the Manangis, the local people who have adapted to the challenges of living at these elevated heights.

Escort with your trekking guide, follow the cultural pathway through the arid upper expanse of the Manang district. This trek route to Manang protects from the full impact of the monsoon rains by the towering Annapurna Range. In this area, the locals area are engage in yak herding and cultivate crops during certain seasons. Remarkably, they still uphold distinctive trading privileges granted as far back as the 17th century.

For those seeking a more nomadic hiking experience or a leisurely backpacking adventure, there is an alternate, more accessible and easier trekking route that leads to the Humde airport. It runs parallel to the scenic Marshyangdi valley. Taking the southern route past Humde Airport, you’ll notice several guesthouses situated at an elevation of 3,325 meters. It is relatively easy walk along the highway, with minimal climbs and gentle ascents.

Walk at northern route passing via Ghyaru, a typical Buddhist village, is longer. Across the Gharu hiking trail, tourists catch a better mountain scenery that follows the northern bank of the Marshyangdi river. Choosing a higher route is a best for the photographer. Furthermore, the ACT hiking trail is totally picturesque, and Braga and Manang villages are partially hidden but impressive.

Today is Acclimatization day but you can hike for some hours or stay at hotel and read the books. Taking a day to acclimate in Manang is crucial, ensuring a gradual ascent to higher altitudes and minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. While engaging in hikes and exploring villages isn’t obligatory, it’s advised to allocate time for these activities. We recommend starting with leisurely walks, such as to the Ice Lake or Gangapurna Glacier Lake.

Hike to Ice Lake is one of the most exceptional day treks in the Trans-Himalaya region. Providing panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range, including Gangapurna and Tilicho peaks, as well as the striking arid valley. Similarly, a trip to Gangapurna Glacier Lake offers a straightforward day excursion with splendid views of the guest houses in Manang. Daytime is ideal for these hikes as it allows for better visibility and a more enjoyable experience.

Embarking on the journey from Manang to Yak Kharka Lodge involves an uphill trek that traverses the cultivated terrain of Tanki Manang village. It remains alongside with a picturesque Jarsang Khola valley until reaching the destination of Yak Kharka. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to observe Himalayan Yaks as they graze in the surrounding landscape.

Additionally, the area might expose glimpses of various wild creatures, such as Mountain Rams (mountain sheep), Himalayan Thars, Mountain Goats, elusive Snow Leopards, Jackals. And as well as a variety of pheasant and long-tail bird species. This stretch of the journey is known to offer encounters with these fascinating creatures as you ascend beyond this point.

Traveling from Yak Kharka Lodge to Thorong Phedi involves a trek that unfolds in distinct stages. Following a two-hour ascent along a verdant Yak trail, the path gradually descends, leading you to a river crossing at an altitude of 4,310 meters.

The journey then resumes with a subsequent climb, guiding you to the welcoming Thorong Phedi guest house, nested at an elevation of 4,450 meters. En route, you’ll traverse areas that have been affected by landslides.

Arriving at the base camp of Thorong La, you’ll discover well-maintain guest houses with comfortable and pristine environment. These accommodations not only provide excellent culinary options and a bakery but also grant access to Internet facilities, ensuring a well-rounded experience amidst the breathtaking surroundings.

Embarking on the challenging journey from Thorong Phedi to Thorong La pass requires an early start, typically around 4 am. To tackle this demanding day of trekking, it’s advisable to equip yourself with the finest mountain gear and be fully prepared for the trail ahead.

Commencing as the sun rises, an early departure is crucial to successfully conquer the Thorong La pass at an elevation of 5,416 meters. This portion of your hiking adventure stands among the world’s top ten long-distance treks and finest hikes.

The mountainous pathway presents an initial steepness, but with a deliberate and steady pace, reaching the summit in approximately four hours is achievable. Upon reaching at Thorong La pinnacle, vibrant prayer flags await, marking the highest point of your hike. Here, travelers have an opportunity to drink a cup of tea/coffee at the Thorong La Tea Shop, situated at the widest stretch of the pass.

Your descent towards Muktinath town extends over a considerable distance, yet compensates with awe-inspiring mountain panoramas throughout the journey. Muktinath itself is a sizable settlement adorned with contemporary and comfortable lodges, providing a fitting resting place after the day’s adventurous exploits.

JEEP or Bus transfer from Muktinath to Tato Pani Hot spring

For those who may feel fatigue after undertaking long day hikes, including the challenging Thorong La pass crossing, there is an alternative option. From Muktinath to the natural hot springs of Tatopani, travelers can take a bus journey to skip the dusty roads.

Its an adventure road that provides a more convenient and efficient way to cover the distance, albeit with an additional fare (payable directly on the bus). By choosing this transportation option, guests can effectively shorten and expedite their Annapurna Circuit trek.

It’s important to note that some backpackers opt to follow backpacking travel guides, which may involve skipping certain segments of the journey. In this context, some hikers might bypass three days of trekking and instead drive from Muktinath to Tatopani. This streamlined approach allows for a quicker route to the renowned Poon Hill, ensuring the enchantment of a breathtaking sunrise.

This flexible approach underscores our commitment to accommodating individual preferences and optimizing travel experiences. Please feel free to share your suggestions, enabling us to tailor the special itinerary to your preferences and enhance the quality of your journey.

At our first section of descend, you can explore to hike at Jharkot Gompa to learn about Buddhist Monks. Its ancient monastery, commonly known as Shakyapa Monastery of Mustang. Continue to walk along the Kali Gandaki river sandy road. This Gandaki River, also familiar as the Narayani and the Gandak, is one of the major rivers in Nepal and a left-bank tributary of the Ganges in India.

Have in mind that if you choose a plan for the Annapurna circuit trek for 10 days then you might need to fly out from Jomsom to Pokhara. So write to us for a better travel plan

From Marpha to Ghasa is a popular to watch Annapurna north view trail because, from Kalo Pani area, tourists can observe Annapurna first. But the best view of Annapurna mountains is ultimately from Poon hill tower.

Later Kalo pani and Lete, we descend steeply through the woodlands to Ghasa, the final Thakali small town and the southernmost limit of Tibetan Shakyapa Buddhism. Kalopani in English is black water because there is a black lake above Kalo Pani villages in the Mustang district.

Furthermore, the beginning part of the rough trail is stretched at an almost flat level up to Kalopani and begins descending steeply to Ghasa. First part of the trek passes through the windy area wrapped with pine trees, rhododendron forests, and birches.

Ghasa is a famous destination for bird watching and wild Marijuana. Tourist will have a terrific view of Mt. Nilgiri North (7061m.)-Central (6940m.), Nilgiri South (6839m), Annapurna I (8091m), Dhaulagiri I (8167m), and Tukuche peak (6920m) en route.

We begin our Tatopani trek and its flagstone-paved streets before following the Kali Gandaki Gorge which is deepest gorge in the world and the last remnants of Tibetan influence in the valley.

Our trail takes us to the impressive Rupse waterfall, the most beautiful waterfall in the Nepal Himalayas. Continue to hike to a delightful Tatopani lodge where tourists can take a bath in a natural hot spring.

Begin on the trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani leads us away from the Kaligandaki Gorge, guiding us toward the Gar Khola River. As the landscape evolves once more, expansive rice terraces come into view, offering a refreshing visual change. Upon reaching Chitre, our ascent involves ascending numerous steps until the distinctive blue rooftops of Ghorepani emerge directly above us.

The adventure-filled hike through a varied forest introduces captivating vistas of the Himalayas and charming village scenes. Typical meaning of Ghorepani – name Ghore means horse while Pani means water. It has striking Tibetan influence, welcomes travelers with an array of jewelry available for purchase in almost every corner. Additionally, it allows for a unique shopping experience amidst the fascinating surroundings.

Early morning, hike to poon hill for a sunrise view over the Himalayan horizon. Reaching Punhill station, just climb poon hill tower to get an Annapurna Mountain glimpse. Hike to Poon Hill is located at an altitude of 10,548 feet above sea level, popular for the best mountain view. This hilltop is very popular to see the Himalayan panorama, especially in the sunrise over the Annapurna massif.

Moreover, tourists can notice Annapurna South, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, Blue Mountain (Nilgiri),…etc within a row. Get back to the lodge for breakfast, and start to walk down the hill to reach Hile Guest houses at 1,520 meters for Lunch.

After lunch, we continue our descent along an easy trail, making our way to Nayapool, where a private taxi will be ready to take us back to Fewa Lakeside in Pokhara.

In the morning, we’ll drive back through the scenic countryside and during the route will stop for breakfast & lunch. Our journey from Pokhara Phewa lakeside to Kthmandu by tourist bus takes around 7 hours depending upon the traffic. Right on arrival at Sorekhutte Tourist Bus park, your guide will arrange a private taxi transfer to your hotel in Thamel area. Trip finish.