Annapurna Circuit Trek
Small Group Journeys

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Trekking around the Annapurna Massif

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The Annapurna Circuit Trek stands as an iconic adventure, popular among trekkers for its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and physical challenges. The trek spans diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to high mountain passes, offering an immersive experience that resonates with the essence of the Himalayas.

This Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a blend of experiences that deeply resonate with the Himalayas’ iconic image. The trek trail traverses remote villages occupied by diverse ethnic groups, each with its unique culture, traditions, and identity. Ancient monasteries, prayer flags swaying in the mountain breeze, and mist-covered valleys add a spiritual dimension to this trek.

The changing topography, transiting from verdant landscapes to arid terrain, showcases the kaleidoscope of vegetation as you ascend through the trail. The crucial moment of crossing Thorong La Pass, the highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek provides a sense of accomplishment and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

Moreover, the breathtaking sunrise and sunset against the backdrop of these majestic peaks create cherished memories for trekkers. This trek in the Annapurna gradually becomes more physically demanding as you navigate through challenging terrains, putting your endurance and resilience to the test.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek circles the Annapurna Massif and was once considered one of the best long-distance treks in the Himalayas of Nepal. When it was first opened for trekking in the late 1970s, the trek in its original form took about twenty-three days to complete the circuit. The Annapurna Circuit Trek started and ended at Dumre, as there was no road infrastructure at that time.

However due to development and road constructions in recent years, the length of the trek has shortened. And now this Annapurna Circuit Trek can be completed within twelve days, including your stay in Kathmandu, and Pokhara. But yet the charm has not decreased, still there is much to see and experience the mountain vistas, cultural diversity, changing landscape avoiding the newly constructed road.

To avoid walking over motorable road, we have begun our Annapurna Circuit Trek from Manang. Starting from Kathmandu, the drive passes through Besisahar and continues towards Tal. Tal is a charming village situated on the banks of the Marshyangdi river and is the gateway to the Manang district.

The drive goes through a diverse landscape, past wonderful waterfalls, lush forests transitioning from subtropical regions to alpine and desert-like terrain along the Kali Gandaki valley. The drive to Manang passes through spectacular villages like Bhratang, Dhikurpokhari, Pisang, and Braga to Manang with enough time to explore in between the drive.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek begins from Manang. Manang is a travelers paradise with its breathtaking landscape and tranquil surrounding. Manang offer a mixture of natural wonders and cultural riches, there are wide collection of lakes, waterfalls, and traditional villages. you will spend two whole days in Manang exploring around and getting acclimatize. This Annapurna Circuit Trek slowly develops from low altitude to higher altitude giving enough time to acclimatize.

As you move towards Thorong La, the views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Tilicho Peak become prominent. Crossing the pass is challenging, yet rewarding, after crossing the pass, you will then descend and enter the Mustang region toward the Muktinath valley. Muktinath is an ancient religious site revered by both the Hindus and the Buddhists.

You will explore around Muktinath, and also visit the Muktinath temple. From Muktinath, you will take a jeep ride past the charming village of Kagbeni, Jomsom, Marpha, Tatopani all the way to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will fly to Kathmandu and end your Annapurna Circuit adventure. The Annapurna Circuit Trek encapsulates a holistic experience – it’s not just a physical journey but a spiritual and cultural odyssey that leaves an indelible mark on those who undertake it.

Annapurna Circuit Trek itinerary

Day 1. Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2. In Kathmandu
Day 3. Drive from Kathmandu to Tal
Day 4. Drive from Tal to Manang
Day 5. In Manang (exploration day)
Day 6. In Manang (exploration day)
Day 7. Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Day 8. Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
Day 9. Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (via the Thorong La pass)
Day 10. Drive from Muktinath to Pokhara
Day 11. Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 12. Departure

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Activities Included Activities Included
Activities Included Trekking
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu, tourist standard hotel in Manang, and tea house lodge/guest house during the trek
Meal Meal Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara while all meals are included during the trek
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during Spring and fall
Route Route Kathmandu-Tal-Manang-Yak Kharka-Thorong Phedi-Muktinath-Pokhara-Kathmandu
  Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months February, September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, December

  • Visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
  • Scenic mountain road drive from Kathmandu to Manang.
  • Drive through the world’s deepest gorge and the Kali Gandaki valley.
  • Mesmerizing view of the Dhaulagiri, Thorong peak, Lamjung Himla, Manaslu, and the Annapurna
  • Visit the old Buddhist monastery in Braga.
  • Explore Praken Gompa, Ice lake and Milarepa cave.
  • Cross over the Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters.
  • Enjoy the spectacular mountain views from Thorong La.
  • Visit the Hindu and Buddhist temples at Muktinath.
  • Enjoy the hospitality of the Thakali people.

Cost Information

Included

  • All transfers by private vehicle.
  • 3 nights accommodation in Kathmandu and 1 night in Pokhara in 3-4* category hotels.
  • 3 nights’ accommodation in tea house lodge & 3 nights accommodation in tourist standard hotel during the trek.
  • Only breakfast during the stay in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with coffee/tea during the trek.
  • One welcome or farewell dinner with a cultural performance in Kathmandu.
  • 1 full day guided city tour in Kathmandu.
  • English-speaking licensed trekking guide along with a porter (1 porter for every two trekkers).
  • One way airfare between Pokhara-Kathmandu.
  • First aid kit and duffel bag.
  • Trekking staff accommodation, wages, meals, trekking gears, and insurance.
  • All necessary paperwork and permits for the trek (ACAP/TIMS card).
  • All government tax and service charges.

Not included

  • Nepal Visa.
  • International airfare.
  • Meals other than listed (lunch and dinner) in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, bar, beverages).
  • Bottled/boiled water, battery recharge and Wi-Fi and hot showers during the trek.
  • Tips and gratuities to Guide, Porter and driver.
  • Travel medical insurance covering rescue and emergency evacuation.
  • Personal trekking gears and equipment’s.
  • Trip cancellation cost due to your health, weather condition, political situation, and any other unforeseen events.
  • Any other expenses other than the listed above.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1:

Arrival in Kathmandu

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu airport, a Wind Horse representative will meet and greet you before transferring you to your hotel. No activities are planned for this day, so you will have the rest of the day at your leisure until the evening. Later in the evening, your trip guide will meet you and present you with a brief orientation about the trek. After the briefing, you will enjoy dinner at a traditional Nepalese restaurant with a cultural performance. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Day 2:

In Kathmandu

Today, you will visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kathmandu Valley: Kathmandu Durbar Square, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is one of the three Durbar (palace) squares in Kathmandu valley. Kathmandu Durbar Square is rich with its intricate wood carving and its history. Also known as the “Musuem of Temples” there are over 50 temples in the square. You will explore the area around the former palace of the kings of Nepal, viewing various temples and monuments.

Following this, you will drive to Boudanath Stupa. Boudanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and also a World Heritage Site. Boudanath signifies peace and tranquility, and is a Centre of religious and spiritual significance. You will see thousands of pilgrims circumambulating the stupa, you will circumambulate with pilgrims and visit the surrounding monasteries.

Afterward, you will proceed to Pashupatinath Temple. The Pashupatinath temple is situated on the banks of the Bagmati river and is one of the most revered Hindu temple in Nepal. The main temple complex is only open to Hindus. Although non Hindus are not allowed the temple complex is large and quite impressive. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Day 3:

Drive to Tal from Kathmandu

The journey from Kathmandu to Tal via Besisahar presents breathtaking views of the Nepalese countryside. The road follows the Marshyangdi river and takes you through charming villages such Bulbule, Ngadi, Syange, Jagat, Chyamje, to Tal.

Tal is a picturesque village situated in an open valley on the banks of the Marshyangdi river with a beautiful waterfall at the background. Overnight in Tal.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 2350m
Duration Duration: 216 kms/8-10 hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 4:

Drive to Manang from Tal

After breakfast, you will begin your journey towards Manang, the drive goes past several villages along the way such as Dharapani, Tanchowk, Chame, Bhratang, Humde, and Bhraka.

Along the way, you will stop at several places to explore around. You will explore by short walks and drives, you will explore around Tanchowk, Dharapani. You will stop by Chame, the headquarter of the Manang district, and a popular stopover in the Annapurna Circuit Trek. You will visit some local homes and experience the local culture and traditions.

Hereafter, you will continue further along the route and stop at Lower Pisang with the views of Upper Pisang on the opposite hill. You can crossover the Marshyangdi river, take a short walk and visit the green lake.

After this you will continue further and stop at Humde village. Humde is a charming village offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains such as Annapurna II, Gangapurna and other towering peaks, and the Marshyangdi river valley.

Next, you will continue further to Braga. Braga is popular for Braga monastery, an ancient monastery which holds immense cultural and religious significance in this area. You will explore the Braga Monastery, which is known for its intricate woodworks, exquisite architecture, with a notable collection of religious artifacts.

After the visit, you will continue towards Manang. Manang is situated on a broad valley on the banks of the Marshyangdi river, with the spectacular views of the surrounding mountain peaks. All trekkers trekking the Annapurna Circuit Trek or the Tilicho lake trek stop by for acclimatization in Manang. Overnight in Manang

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tourist standard hotel
Day 5:

In Manang (exploration day)

Acclimatization is crucial when trekking at high altitudes like the Thorong La Pass (5,416m). This helps the body adjust to the surrounding atmosphere and prevents altitude sickness. Manang is a perfect place for acclimatize. Manang offer a mixture of natural wonders and cultural riches, there are wide collection of lakes, waterfalls, and traditional villages.

Manang is a travelers paradise with its breathtaking landscape and tranquil surrounding. Most trekkers spend one night in Manang, whereas you will spend two nights in Manang, before heading towards Thorong La Pass. There are several options for a day’s hike from Manang, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views.

You can hike to Praken Gompa, this is relatively a short hike compared to other hikes. Praken Gompa situated at 3945 m offers breathtaking views of the valley below and the surrounding mountians such as the Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna, and others.

There is also the option to hike to Khangsar, a small Tibetan style village on the route to Tilicho lake. Khangsar provides fantastic views of Tilicho Peak. The journey takes about 2-3 hrs one way, the trail goes above the Marshyangdi river with great views. There is also the option to take a short hike and visit the Gangapurna lake, a turquoise blue lake just an hour away from Manang. Overnight in Manang

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tourist standard hotel
Day 6:

In Manang (exploration day)

For those who are more adventurous, there is the option to visit Milarepa Cave or Ice Lake for high altitude walk.

The hike to Milarepa cave is longer; it will take about 4-5 hours round trip. Milarepa cave is the place where the Tibetan saint and poet Milarepa had meditated. This cave has an immense religious value, thousands of pilgrims from Nepal, India, Bhutan, as well the neighboring Tibet visit this cave every year.

Another more popular hike from Manang is the Ice lake hike. This hike is one of the most demanding hike, it takes about 5-6 hours round trip from Manang. The climb is not that difficult but the altitude and the wind may make it difficult. Moreover, the ice lake hike will serve you as a preparation for the much longer Thorong La pass hike. Overnight in Manang.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3519m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs
Overnight Tourist standard hotel
Day 7:

Trek to Yak Kharka from Manang

The trek from Manang to Yak Kharka is one of the shortest in this Annapurna Circuit Trek. the trail goes with great views along the way.

Leaving Manang, you will encounter a small stream before ascending uphill toward the village of Tenki. Continuing further, you’ll gradually ascend out of the Marshyangdi Valley in a northwest direction, following the valley of Jarshang Khola.

As you continue further the landscape becomes more dry and the vegetation gets more sparser. The trail guides you through scenic meadow, offering a beautiful environment. Along the trail, you will come across yak pastures, and scrub juniper forests, past the village of Ghunsang.

After crossing a wooden bridge that spans a small river, passing by an ancient stone wall adorned with inscriptions, you will finally arrive at the small village of Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4110m
Duration Duration: 4-5hrs
Overnight Tea House
Day 8:

Trek to Thorong Phedi from Yak Kharka

The hike to Thorong Phedi isn’t strenuous in terms of technical difficulty, but the diminishing oxygen levels pose a physical demand. Initially the trail climbs out of Yak Kharka, and then it gets gradual beyond Ledar descending towards Jarshang Khola.

The valley gets more narrower and steep sided as you move forward. The landscape becomes more barren and rocky, and the views great with good views of the surrounding peaks. After about 4 hours or more you will finally arrive at Thorong Phedi.

Thorong Phedi is the last village before you cross the Thorong La Pass, therefore you will take time to acclimate and rest adequately before continuing towards the Thorong La pass. Overnight in Thorong Phedi.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 4600m
Duration Duration: 4hrs, Approx. 7kms, Ascent : 520m
Overnight Tea House
Day 9:

Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La pass

Crossing the Thorong La Pass is a challenging adventure. Starting early would be a wise decision, given the altitude and potential weather conditions. The steep ascent can present challenges, particularly with melting snow, so exercising caution we will begin your journey.

The Pass itself is not difficult, it is wide and open. The trail is wide and easy to follow, but the climb is long and gradual until Thorong La. The Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters is breathtaking. The panoramic view of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, stretching into Tibet, is a sight to behold.

Taking in some time to soak in this majestic 360-degree view and capturing the moments in your camera, you will then descend slowly towards Muktinath. Muktinath – a sacred place for Hindus and Buddhists. For the Hindus, it is the Muktichetra , the place of Nirvana. For the Buddhists it Chumig Gyatsa, which in Tibetan means Hundred Waters. Overnight in Muktinath.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Altitude Altitude: 3800m
Duration Duration: 8-9hrs, Approx. 15kms, Ascent : 910m
Overnight Tea House
Day 10:

Drive to Pokhara from Muktinath

Today you will head back towards Pokhara in a private jeep, past the villages of Kagbeni, Marpha, Tatopani via the Beni Jomsom road. On reaching Pokhara, you will check into your hotel and the afternoon is free to explore around the lakeside area. Overnight in Pokhara

 

MEALS:
Breakfast
Lunch
Altitude Altitude: 822m
Duration Duration: 5-6hrs drive/175 kms
Day 11:

Fly to Kathmandu

After breakfast, our guide and driver will accompany you to the Pokhara airport for your departure flight to Kathmandu. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative will welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the hotel. You’ll have the rest of the day to yourself. Overnight in Kathmandu.

MEALS:
Breakfast
Altitude Altitude: 1350 m
Day 12:

Departure

Transfer to the airport in time for your departure flight.

MEALS:
Breakfast

Group Travel Dates

Start Date
End Date
Status
Remarks
 

Overview

trekking Trip Type Trekking
Activities Included Activities Included
Activities Included Trekking
Accommodation Accommodation 3-4* category hotel in Kathmandu, tourist standard hotel in Manang, and tea house lodge/guest house during the trek
Meals Meals Only breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara while all meals are included during the trek
Route Route Kathmandu-Tal-Manang-Yak Kharka-Thorong Phedi-Muktinath-Pokhara-Kathmandu
Max Group Size Max Group Size 2-8
Best Seasons Best Seasons Best during Spring and fall
Best Months Best Months March, April, May, October, November

Good Months Good Months February, September

Lean Months Lean Months June, July, August

 Not Recommended Months Not Recommended Months January, December

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