Annapurna Circuit Trek

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the vibrant Thamel district. Spend the evening exploring the narrow streets, sampling local cuisine, and preparing for the adventure ahead.

The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Nepali countryside. Leaving Kathmandu, the road winds through terraced hills and alongside the Trishuli River before joining the Marsyangdi River valley. The landscape shifts from bustling towns to peaceful villages as you approach Taal, a tranquil settlement that marks the start of the trekking route.

Your first day of trekking follows the Marsyangdi River through charming villages. Notice the architectural transition as you ascend—mud-and-wood houses give way to sturdy stone structures designed for the colder climates ahead. You'll pass your first mani walls and chortens, Buddhist shrines that will become familiar companions on the trail.

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The trail continues through fragrant pine and rhododendron forests. You'll cross several suspension bridges and pass through Timang, which offers spectacular views of Mt. Manaslu.

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Arriving in Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, treat yourself to a soak in the natural hot springs—the perfect remedy for tired muscles.

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Today you'll pass through the famous apple orchards of Bhratang before climbing to Upper Pisang.

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Upper Pisang is a medieval village perched on the hillside. The traditional Tibetan-style houses, built from stone and wood with flat roofs, are adorned with prayer flags. Visit the ancient monastery and watch the sunset paint Annapurna II in golden hues.

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This challenging day rewards you with some of the finest views of the trek. The high route through Ghyaru offers panoramic vistas of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna II, III, IV, and the impressive Gangapurna.

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The village of Ngawal sits on a plateau with sweeping views of the Marsyangdi Valley.

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A gentler day as you descend toward Manang, passing through the ancient village of Bhraga with its impressive monastery—one of the oldest in the region.

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Manang is the cultural heart of the upper valley and an important acclimatization stop. Explore the Gangapurna Glacier and Lake, a short hike from town.

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A crucial rest day to help your body adjust to the altitude. Hike to the Praken Gompa above the village for sweeping views, or attend an informative talk at the Himalayan Rescue Association about altitude sickness prevention. The extra day here significantly improves your chances of a successful pass crossing.

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The landscape becomes increasingly stark as you leave Manang behind. The trail passes through Tangki, following the Jarsang Khola valley. Yak Kharka ('yak pasture') is a small settlement where yaks graze on the high pastures and wildlife spotters may see blue sheep (bharal) on the rocky slopes. The views of Chulu and Gangapurna are spectacular.

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A shorter but important day as you approach the base of the pass. The trail climbs steadily through barren terrain to Thorong Phedi ('foot of Thorong'), the last settlement before the pass crossing. Some trekkers continue another hour uphill to High Camp (4,925m) for a shorter summit day. Rest early and prepare for the pre-dawn start tomorrow.

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The defining day of the trek. You'll start in darkness, climbing steadily toward the pass. Each step at this altitude requires effort, but the sense of achievement upon reaching the prayer flag-draped summit is profound.

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After soaking in the views, descend rapidly to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site featuring 108 water spouts and an eternal flame.

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Descend through the picturesque villages of Jharkot and Kagbeni.

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Kagbeni is a gateway to the forbidden kingdom of Upper Mustang.

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A short drive takes you to Marpha, famous for its apple orchards and brandy. The white-washed buildings and cobblestone streets give the village a distinctly Tibetan character.

Today's drive takes you through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest canyon on Earth, carved between the peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The journey is dusty but spectacular. Arriving in Pokhara, you'll be greeted by the serene beauty of Phewa Lake and the relaxed lakeside atmosphere.

A well-deserved rest day. Optional activities include boating on Phewa Lake, visiting the World Peace Pagoda, or simply relaxing at a lakeside cafe. For the adventurous, paragliding offers unforgettable views of the Annapurna range and the city below.

Leave the tourist bustle behind and travel to Barang Village for an authentic community homestay experience. You'll be welcomed into a local family's home, sharing meals prepared with organic ingredients from their garden and learning about traditional agricultural practices.

Spend the day immersed in village life. Participate in farming activities, learn traditional crafts from local artisans, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna range. Evening brings traditional music and dance, offering a glimpse into customs passed down through generations.

Bid farewell to your host family and return to Kathmandu. Depending on your preference, travel by domestic flight or scenic drive. The evening is free to explore Thamel's markets for last-minute souvenirs.

A full day to explore Kathmandu's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) for panoramic city views, the sacred Pashupatinath Temple along the Bagmati River, the massive Boudhanath Stupa, and Durbar Square with its ancient temples and palaces. A farewell dinner concludes your Nepal adventure.

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of mountain passes, mountain people, and the magic of the Himalayas.