Annapurna Circuit trek is a popular trek of Nepal which lies inside the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) of the Annapurna Region. Also known as the Royal Annapurna Trek, this Annapurna Circuit trek is a long distance and high altitude trek. This trek takes you around the entire Annapurna Massif which is the world’s 10th highest peak with an altitude of 8091 m. Located at the north central part of Nepal, this trek was a famous one during the late 80’s and 90’s. This trek offers magnificent vista of the Great Himalayas crossing one of the highest passes of Nepal, Thorong LA pass. This pass makes the trek more difficult and challenging but offers incredible view and experience of a lifetime. The trek follows two popular rivers of Nepal, the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki River.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a challenging trek which takes you to an altitude of 5416 m, Thorong LA pass, which is the highest altitude of the entire trek. This trek requires some physical fitness and trekking experience as well. Starting from the capital city of Nepal, trekkers will cross various highlands with high passes and rugged landscapes of the Himalayas. Trekkers will make a complete rotation of the world’s 10th highest peak, Mt. Annapurna. During the whole trip, they will pass various beautiful settlements, dense forest, passes and vice versa. Amazing mountain vista including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiuchuli, Fishtail, Nilgiri, Manasalu and other peaks can be enjoyed during the trip. Trekkers can have close interaction with the local people, their living style, culture and traditions as well.
This amazing trip starts from Kathmandu where you will have a wonderful sightseeing tour around the UNESCO world’s heritage site. From Kathmandu, you will have an amazing overland drive towards Besisahar which is the starting point of the trek. You will pass villages like Khudi, Sirung, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame and Pisang walking along the Marsyangdi River trail. You will enjoy an amazing acclimatization day at Manang, a popular village in the lap of Himalayas. From here, you will head towards the highest point of the trip, Thorong LA pass, with an altitude of 5416m via Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi. This pass can be a challenging point for most of the trekker due to its high altitude environment and the strong wind at the pass. It will be a challenging and one of the great experiences of your lifetime. Thorong LA pass adjoint two popular districts of Nepal, Manang and Mustang. From the top of Thorong, you will descend down towards Mustang district. Magnificent landscape of Mustang district can be enjoyed during the descend. You will head towards Muktinath, one of the sacred place for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. This is one of the ancient sacred temples located in the Himalayas. From Muktinath, you will descend to Kagbeni and then to Jomsom enjoying the landscape and terrains of Mustang. From Jomsom, you will drive to Pokhara which is a popular place for tourist. You will have some chilling time around Pokhara before flying back to Kathmandu where the trip ends. Beside the Himalayas, Annapurna Circuit trek is full of diverse flora and fauna. The dense forest and barren lands are home for various wild plants and animals. Sights of some animals like Himalayan Tahr, Snow leopard, Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Red panda, etc. can be enjoyed during the trip.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular destination which attracts a large number of tourist throughout the year from different places. This amazing trip with our company can be the best choice. We customize the trip itinerary according to clients preference. We focus on customer’s satisfaction ensuring their safety and security as well. Our services are qualitative with reasonable price.
During the trip such thing weather, local Politics, transportation and other factors are beyond our control which can change our itinerary. However it is unlikely that the itinerary would be changed. If the cases alternative itinerary is needed the leader (Guide) will decide what is the best alternative itinerary for the whole group. Whether the change of itinerary is does not matter, we can do everything and minimized it effect but we can not be responsible for the result of delay.
Arrival
Upon landing on Kathmandu and finishing all the formality regarding visa you will be welcomed by one of our representative. He then will take you to your hotel. We will conduct small meet and greet and brief you about your trek. Rest of time you can look around the Kathmandu the capital.
Drive to Besisahar (760m/2493 ft.)
Today we will hop on jeep from hotel and start drive towards Besisahar. The drive duration is about 5 hours. Following the highway with some amazing landscape views we will reach Besisahar.
Drive Pisang (3200m/ 10498 ft.)
After having breakfast we follow the amazing scenic and off road trail leading to Pisang. The remote road are accompanied by amazing views, plenty of waterfalls and many other things. You could interact with local and do other activity while on road.
Trek to Manang (3450m/ 11318 ft.)
Today we start our hike. The village of Pisang offers two distinct paths one follows the opposite side of Marsyangdi River and the other one is leading to Hongde (3325m/10908 ft.) the trail through Hongde is comparatively less demanding. Both the trails meet at place called Mungji. Continuing from Mungji, the trail meanders through the picturesque village of Bryanga, nestled at an elevation of 3475m, before reaching the sought-after destination of Manang at 3450m. Manang, renowned as a trekkers' haven in this region, boasts a drier climate and showcases breathtaking panoramas of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. The local inhabitants of Manang engage in yak rearing and crop cultivation as their main sources to sustain their livelihood, while also migrating to other regions during winter for trade purposes.
Acclimatization day at Manang (3540m/11614 ft.)
The day today is for acclimatization as your body needs to adapt the atmosphere of this completely new territory. We will spend this day exploring Manang and get some quiet and peace at lap of nature. We will explore the villages of Manang and interact with locals, enjoy some local cuisine and much more.
Trek to Yak Kharka (4090m/13418 ft.)
Today, our journey takes us towards Yak Kharka as we steadily ascend, gradually gaining altitude. Along the way, we traverse the captivating Jardang Khola valley, eventually arriving at the picturesque village of Ledar, situated at an elevation of 4250m. As we hike through this awe-inspiring landscape, we are treated to breathtaking vistas at every turn. Upon reaching Yak Kharka, we are greeted by numerous huts belonging to the local yak herders, who lead a traditional and nomadic way of life. If we are fortunate, we may even have the opportunity to interact with these herders and gain insight into their fascinating culture. Additionally, Yak Kharka holds the possibility of encountering the elusive Snow Leopard, adding an element of excitement and intrigue to our adventure.
Trek to Thorung Phedi (4420m/ 14501ft.)
Our journey today takes us on a descent along the trail, guiding us through the rugged terrain. As we make our way, we encounter a river flowing gracefully at an elevation of 4310 meters. Crossing this river, our path then ascends once more, leading us towards our destination: Thorong Phedi. Nestled at an impressive altitude of 4420 meters, Thorong Phedi serves as the gateway to the renowned Thorung La Pass. This picturesque location offers a captivating vista of the majestic Annapurna region, showcasing its overwhelming peaks and pristine natural beauty. As we pause in the breathtaking surroundings, the allure of the journey ahead indicates us, filled with expectation and the promise of unforgettable experiences.
Conquering Thorung-la Pass (5416m/17769 ft.) and breathtaking descent to Muktinath (3,762 m (12,343 ft. 8-9 hours)
Today, we embark on an early morning adventure, bracing ourselves for the ultimate test of endurance and determination “the ascent of Thorung-la Pass”, standing tall at an impressive altitude of 5416 meters. This day promises to be both challenging and incredibly rewarding, as we navigate through rugged terrain, fully immersing ourselves in the surrounding mountains. With each step we take, we embrace the present moment, enjoying every breathtaking view and appreciating the happiness that comes with conquering such formidable heights.
Landscape decorated with numerous chortens, vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and other symbolic expressions of the faith of the local Buddhist community. These sacred markers serve as a reminder of the deep spirituality that permeates this region and add an air of tranquility to our journey.
Having successfully crossed the pass, we begin our descent towards the enchanting destination of Muktinath. This sacred site holds immense significance for both Buddhist and Hindu devotees, offering a harmonious blend of spiritual traditions. Here, we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the cultural richness of the area, paying homage to the revered temples and soaking in the serene atmosphere that surrounds us.
Hike to Jomsom (2743m/9000 ft. 4 hours)
Today descending through the dry terrain we reach historical town of Kagbeni. Located at the bank of Kali Gandaki River, we will be exploring the monastery which has rich heritage dating back to 2500 years old and get insight on Himalayan culture. In order to reach Jomsom we will hike about three to four hours. Exploring the ancient mystery of Kagbeni, the day marks as final day of trekking of the Annapurna circuit trek. From here you can either take a flight to Pokhara or drive to Pokhara.
Fly/ drive to Pokhara
You can either choose to drive of fly to the Pokhara. You still can continue your walk but it is not recommended as you will have to walk through the motor road filled with dust. It’s better to fly or drive. The flight duration is about 16-20 minutes. Rest of the time you can chill around lake side at Pokhara.
Fly back Kathmandu.
Having good time while on trek, packing all the memories of the trek we will fly Kathmandu today. The flight duration is about 30 minutes.
Final departure.
Our representative will drop you at the international terminal from where you will be catching flight to your next destination.
