The Annapurna Circuit Trek stands as a timeless favorite and a truly gratifying adventure in Nepal, encircling the majestic Annapurna massif. Commencing from either Bhote Order or Gorkha, situated west of Kathmandu, this iconic journey culminates in the picturesque city of Pokhara. Throughout the trek, trekkers are treated to close-up vistas of the awe-inspiring Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and the magnificent Machhapuchre, painting a canvas of natural splendor. A highlight of the trek lies in traversing the lofty Throng Pass, soaring at 5,414 meters above sea level, which transitions from the arid expanse of upper Manang, inhabited by Tibeto-Buddhist communities, to the revered Hindu pilgrimage site of Muktinath, nestled within the Kali Gandaki valley—renowned as the world’s deepest river gorge. Along the journey, travelers also encounter a mosaic of mountain communities, including the Gurung, Manangi, and Thakali people, each contributing to the cultural tapestry of the region.
In recent times, the Annapurna Circuit Trek has undergone modifications due to the accessibility brought about by roadways. Consequently, the trailhead now commences from Syange, situated beyond the town of Besisahar, facilitating a more condensed journey. This alteration integrates the trekking experience with overland travel, as the route follows the path along the Marshyangdi River valley, with plans underway to extend the road network towards Chame town in the coming years. As such, our proposed itinerary seamlessly combines the elements of both overland exploration and trekking, offering a holistic adventure amidst the unparalleled beauty of the Annapurna region.
ACT
Lodge
Tourist Bus
4450m
Mar - Jun / Sep - Nov
Kathmandu
Kathmandu
• Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.
• Spend the day exploring Kathmandu, visiting temples, and preparing for your trek.
• Optional: Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square or Swayambhunath Stupa.
• Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar (about 6-7 hours).
• Continue by jeep or local transport to Bhulbhule, the starting point of the trek.
• Begin trekking towards Bhulbhule and spend the night there.
• Trek through terraced fields and forests to reach Jagat (6-7 hours).
• Pass through several charming villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups.
• Enjoy the views of waterfalls and green hills along the way.
• Trek through rhododendron and pine forests, crossing the Marsyangdi River
several times.
• Pass through Chamje and Tal villages before reaching Dharapani (6-7 hours).
• Dharapani offers stunning views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II.
• Trek through dense forests and rocky trails to reach Chame, the district
headquarters of Manang (5-6 hours).
• Enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna II and Lamjung Himal along the way.
• Explore Chame and visit the local hot springs to relax.
• Trek along a steep and narrow trail, passing through dense forests and
picturesque villages.
• Reach Upper Pisang, offering breathtaking views of Annapurna II, IV, and III (5-6
hours).
• Explore the traditional Tibetan-style village and visit the Upper Pisang Monastery.
• Trek through arid landscapes and barley fields, with stunning views of Annapurna
ranges.
• Pass through Ghyaru and Ngawal villages before reaching Manang (6-7 hours).
• Manang is a beautiful village situated at an altitude of 3,540 meters.
• Rest and acclimatize to the altitude in Manang.
• Optional hike to Gangapurna Lake or Milarepa Cave for acclimatization and
exploration.
• Visit the Himalayan Rescue Association's clinic for altitude sickness information.
• Trek through alpine landscapes, yak pastures, and juniper forests towards Yak
Kharka (4-5 hours).
• Enjoy stunning views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak along the
way.
• Yak Kharka is a small settlement with basic teahouses, situated at 4,018 meters.
• Trek uphill towards Thorong Phedi, the base camp for crossing Thorong La Pass
(3-4 hours).
• Pass through Ledar village and ascend gradually towards Thorong Phedi.
• Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the pass crossing.
• Early morning start to cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters), the highest point of
the trek.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from the pass.
• Descend steeply to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
(7-8 hours).
• The Annapurna Circuit trek heads downhill, through the arid landscape to the
ancient town of Jomsom on the Kali Gandaki River.
• Transfer to the airport as per your flight schedule and fly to Pokhara and free day.
• Pokhara is a beautiful natural valley and the most popular tourist destination
where you will be welcomed by high standing, uncountable mountains along with
Annapurna, Machhapuchre (fish tail).
• Drive or fly back to Kathmandu from Pokhara (about 6-7 hours by road or 25
minutes by flight).
• Transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
• Optional: Explore more of Kathmandu or do any last-minute shopping.
• Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your
Annapurna Circuit Trek adventure.
