Annapurna Circuit Trek

Meet your guide and porter before setting off on your Annapurna Circuit adventure. A short taxi ride will take you to Gongabu New Bus Park, where you’ll board a microbus to Besisahar, covering 174.5 kilometers (108.43 miles). Along the way, soak in breathtaking views of snow capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming villages.

Upon reaching Besisahar, transfer to a local shared bus for the final stretch to Nagdi village. This 8 to 9 hour journey is an adventure in itself. Finally, unwind at a cozy guesthouse, nestled among terraced rice fields and serene mountain landscapes.

You’ll have a captivating journey today that unfolds through diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. However, first stretch leads to Syange Bazaar, where trekkers are greeted by a breathtaking waterfall at 3,510 feet, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

Cross a suspension bridge over the Marsyangdi River and follow its winding course toward Jagat, a charming village nestled in the hills. From there, the trail gradually ascends to Chamje, blending natural beauty with rugged terrain, making each step a rewarding challenge.

Continue to follow rocky mountain trails along the Marshyangdi Tributary that ascends steadily, leading to Tal at 1,675 meters. Tal is first village in the Manang district, whether the route stretches across a wide, flat gorge.

Your path winds through rolling terrain, eventually reaching Dharapani and Bagarchap village rich in Tibetan influence. Here, locals have built unique homes surrounded by apple orchards and maize fields, creating a stunning and serene landscape.

Cross the river and continue to 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. Visitors can further unwind with a walk to the natural hot springs, where trekkers can enjoy taking a hot bath.

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 situated at an altitude of 5,200 meters, said to have the highest lake in the world.

Today’s hike to Pisang begins through a dense forest, winding through a rough and narrow valley. Crossing a long suspension bridge over the river, the imposing Paungda Danda rock face soon comes into view, signaling the start of an exciting ascent.

As the trail gradually unfolds, breathtaking landscapes emerge, making the journey even more rewarding. Upper Pisang awaits with its serene atmosphere, inviting trekkers to explore its higher elevations. Here, visitors can experience the unique lifestyle of the Manangis, who have skillfully adapted to life in this high altitude terrain.

From upper Pisang to Ngawal village (3,660 meters) takes around 3 hours, presents breathtaking views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Tilicho Peak. As you ascend gradually, you’ll pass through Ghyaru, a traditional village with stunning vistas, before reaching Ngawal. From there to Braga village takes 2 to 3 hours, following a scenic downhill trail with arid landscapes, ancient stupas, and the historic Braga Monastery.

Alternatively, the lower route via Humde Airport offers an easier, more comfortable walk along a dusty road. Staying in Braga Village provides a peaceful high altitude retreat, with rich Tibetan culture and a chance to explore the revered Braga Monastery, offering spiritual insights and panoramic mountain views.

Today is designated for acclimatization, but to aid the process, it’s recommended to take a gentle walk of about 3 kilometers (30 to 45 minutes) along an easy trail to the guest houses in Manang. After checking in, take time to explore the breathtaking surroundings. Proper acclimatization at this stage is crucial for a safe ascent and helps minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

While rest is important, engaging in light physical activity can significantly enhance your adjustment to the altitude. A highly recommended option is a scenic hike to Gangapurna Glacier Lake and the Gangapurna Viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic views and contributing to better acclimatization.

Alternatively, if you’re fit and seeking more adventure, we recommend to trek to Ice Lake. A trek to Ice lake is one of the finest day hikes in the Trans Himalaya region provides an extensive views of the Annapurna range along with an arid valley.

Begins with an uphill trek through the cultivated land of Tanki Manang village, following the scenic Jarsang Khola valley to Yak Kharka. Along the way, you may spot Himalayan Yaks grazing in the vast landscape.

This stretch is also known for sightings of wildlife, such as Mountain Rams, Himalayan Thars, Mountain Goats, elusive Snow Leopards, and Jackals, as well as a variety of pheasant and long tail bird species. Ascent to Yak Kharka provides an ample opportunities to encounter these fascinating creatures.

Today’s trek to Thorong Phedi follows a clear two-stage route. First, a steep two-hour climb along a verdant Yak trail. Then, the path eases into a gentle descent, crossing a river at 4,310 meters. This section showcases the stunning high-altitude landscapes of the Annapurna region.

Afterward, the journey continues with a steady climb, bringing you to the welcoming Thorong Phedi guest house at 4,450 meters. Along the way, you’ll pass areas affected by landslides. At the Thorong La base camp, you’ll find well maintained guest houses with a pristine environment, excellent food, and even a bakery. Enjoy internet access, ensuring a seamless experience in this breathtaking setting.

To conquer the challenging trek to Thorong La, we recommend starting early around 4 AM as an early departure is crucial for success. You’ll need a high quality mountain gear and full preparation for the demanding trail ahead.

For the first ascent is steep, but with a steady pace, you can reach the summit in about four hours. Upon arrival, vibrant prayer flags greet you, marking the highest point of your journey. At sunrise, you’ll stand at Thorong La, 5,416 meters high is the widest pass in the Himalayas. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee at the Thorong La Tea Shop, located at the pass’s widest stretch. In terms of rank, this trek starting from Thorong phedi to Muktinath is among the world’s top ten longest distance hikes that provides an unforgettable experience.

From Thorong La to Muktinath temple descending is a long journey but scenic, with breathtaking views of the versatile mountains, including Dhaulagiri. Muktinath, a larger settlement, boasts modern lodges with a perfect for a restful stop after your adventurous day.

On your following day, if you feel fatigued from the challenging Thorong La pass, you have an alternative. You can return to Pokhara by bus or jeep, allowing you to finish your trek earlier. This option presents a peaceful conclusion, letting you recover comfortably while enjoying the scenic drive.

In the first section of your descent, you can explore a hike to Jharkot Gompa, where you’ll have an opportunity to learn about the Buddhist monks. This ancient monastery, commonly known as Shakyapa Monastery of Mustang, provides insight into the region’s spiritual heritage.

Continuing your journey, you’ll walk along the Kali Gandaki River’s sandy road. Kali Gandaki, also known as Narayani or Gandak, is one of Nepal’s major rivers. It flows as a vital left-bank tributary of the Ganges River in India. This river holds great significance for both natural beauty and cultural heritage in the region.

Marpha is a charming village known for its apple orchards and the delightful aroma of cider. It is also home to several excellent bakeries, producing delicious apple puff pastries, cakes and Brandy.

On your journey today, you’ll have a breathtaking vista of the Annapurna North range, especially from Kalo Pani, where Annapurna I is visible. As we descend steeply from Kalo Pani and Lete through woodlands, we reach Ghasa, a small Thakali town and the southern limit of Tibetan Shakyapa Buddhism. It winds through pine trees, rhododendron forests, and birches, leads to Ghasa, renowned for birdwatching and wild marijuana. Along the way, trekkers enjoy stunning views of mount Nilgiri, Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri I, and Tukuche Peak.

Follow its flagstone paved streets, and make your way towards the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, which also marks the last remnants of Tibetan influence in the valley.

From there, the trail leads us to the impressive Rupse Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Nepalese Himalaya. Continuing onward, we reach a charming Tatopani Lodge, where trekkers can chill out and take a refreshing dip in the natural hot springs.

Today’s journey to Ghorepani leads us away from the Kali Gandaki Gorge, guiding us toward the Gar Khola River. As the landscape shifts, expansive rice terraces offer a refreshing visual change. Upon reaching Chitre, we ascend numerous steps until the distinctive blue rooftops of Ghorepani appear above us.

This adventure through diverse forests unveils captivating views of the Himalayas and charming village scenes. Ghorepani, meaning “horse water” in Tibetan, greets visitors with vibrant jewelry markets, presents an unique shopping experience in this fascinating setting.

Early in the morning around 5am, hike to Poon Hill at 3,210 meters to catch a stunning sunrise vista over the Annapurna Himalayan horizon. Upon reaching the Poon Hill Station, a short climb to the Poon Hill Tower presents a glimpse of the Annapurna Mountain range. At an altitude of 10,548 feet, Poon Hill is prominent for its breathtaking mountain views, especially during sunrise over the Annapurna Massif. Tourists can also enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South, Fishtail, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri in a single line.

After soaking in the views, we return to the lodge for breakfast. Pack your gears and meeting the porters, you’ll start to walk downhill to Hile Guest Houses at 1,520 meters where we take an organic lunch. Following that, we continue our easy descent to Nayapool, where a private taxi will take us back to Fewa Lakeside in Pokhara.

In the morning, we begin our drive back through the scenic countryside, making stops along the way to Kathmandu. Pokhara’s Phewa Lakeside to Kathmandu by tourist bus journey will takes about seven hours, depending on traffic on the Prithvi Highway.

Upon arrival at Balaju Bus station, your guide will arrange a private taxi to your hotel in Thamel. With that, your trip comes to a close. As this marks the final day of your hike around the Annapurna, it is customary to express your appreciation to your guide and porters. Tipping is a common practice in the trekking culture, and it is generally expected as a gesture of gratitude for their support and service.