Annapurna Circuit Trek
This classic journey around the Annapurna Himalaya massif begins with a drive to Besisahar in the lowland paddy fields. From there, the trek steadily ascends as it follows the Marshyangdi River Valley, passing through oak and pine forests before entering the high desert region of Manang (3,597m). Along the way, the trail winds through the villages of Chamje, Bagarchap, and Pisang, eventually leading up to the challenging Thorung La Pass (5,416m).
The descent is equally breathtaking, as the trail follows the Kali Gandaki River Valley through the culturally rich villages of Muktinath and Jomsom, before concluding with a scenic drive to Pokhara. This trek offers an incredible variety of ecosystems and landscapes, from lush paddy fields and oak forests to arid deserts and the world’s deepest gorge, while also providing insight into the diverse cultures of the region.
The ecosystem of this region has been praised by the WWF for successful conservation of the snow leopard and its game, typically the Blue Sheep. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project has been active in these regions for more than a decade for the preservation of the fragile ecosystem and has successfully received several accolades.
Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days
🌲 Highlights:
• Circle the Himalayas, Thorong La — high-altitude wonders in one journey— the trek of a lifetime
• Peaks, valleys, and changing landscapes — Nepal’s ultimate trail of diversity — from green paddy fields and oak forests to arid deserts and the world’s deepest gorge — landscapes that never stop changing
• Sacred valleys, shimmering lakes — Annapurna’s timeless essence
• Cultural richness — Brahmin and Chettri farming communities give way to Gurung, Magar, and Bhotia traders, with traditions shifting from Hinduism to Buddhism.
• Close-up mountain views — the Annapurna range dominates the horizon throughout the trek.
• Nepal’s ultimate trail of diversity and discovery: cultures, peaks, and valleys all in one epic journey
✅ In essence: The Annapurna Circuit lies in its ever-changing scenery, diverse cultures, and unforgettable Himalayan panoramas, and crossing the Thorong La Pass makes it one of the most celebrated treks in the world.
Itinerary
DESCRIPTIVE ITINERARY:
Arrival and transfer to Hotel. Free day. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be met by our staff and transferred to your Hotel. In the evening you guide will be introduced to you, and a briefing session will be conducted about your trek. A free evening.
Optional Kathmandu Valley sightseeing Tour.
If you opt for it, we can organise a guided "walking tour" of Kathmandu Valley UNESCO Heritage sites: old bazaars and Durbar Squares of Patan and Bhaktapur, stupas and Temples for cultural discoveries of ancient temples and religious shrines of the three medieval kingdoms.
Kathmandu to Dharapani (1910 m)
This classic journey begins with a drive to Besisahar, gradually heading north along the Marsyangdi River. Passing through the villages of Bhulbhule and Jagat, the route winds through fertile farmland and river valley scenery framed by spectacular mountain views. The drive takes almost the entire day, offering plenty of time to enjoy the lush landscapes and changing surroundings. Overnight stay at a lodge.
Dharapani to Chame (2620 m)
After breakfast, head out and hike up to Bagarchap village (2,160m), where the houses appear to be more traditional flat roofed Tibetan style structure. Continue upwards to Tyanja (2,360m), Kopar (2,590m) and then to Chame at 2,620m. Chame is the headquarters of Manang district, which also rewards you with fine views of Annapurna II. Overnight at Chame.
Chame to Pisang (3,200 m.)
Along the Marsyangdi River, cross the long suspension bridge at 2.910 m and yet another suspension bridge at 3,040m. A fine sight of the soaring Paungda Danda rock face appears before you. After about five hours of hiking, you will then get to the sprawling village of Pisang. Overnight at local Tea houses.
Manang (3540 m)
From Pisang, you'll hit the trail to Manang. The path ascends a steep ridge through forests leading to views of the Manang Valley, Humde village, and Tilicho peak. From here, you can take in the rolling hills and expansive plains of the Sabje Khola Valley where the Annapurna massif soon becomes visible. You'll then cross a wooden bridge over the Marsyangdi River to get to the tiny village of Mungji, as well as the village of Braga, with its notable monastery, including chortens and mani walls surrounded by more snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Continue trekking along rolling hillsides until you reach the large village of Manang. Once settled, you'll have opportunities to explore more of the area's Tibetan culture, truly a standout in this remote mountainous region.
A rest day in Manang (3540 m)
Today is a rest day, so take advantage of being able to sleep in before breakfast. This is an important opportunity to acclimatize to the higher altitude before tomorrow's crossing of the Thorung La mountain pass. You can choose to take it easy in Manang and explore the busy village's streets or pick between several day trips that come with amazing views.
Manang to Yak Kharka (4,020 m)
From Siri Kharka to Yak Kharka, you will descend toward Thare Gomba and, in only a few minutes, reach a trail junction. You will walk further until the seasonal bridge in the Thorang Khola valley. Cross the river to the east bank and ascend along for a while to a plateau and walk further until reaching Yak Kharka. Overnight in Yak Kharka.
Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450 m)
Leaving Yak Kharka, you will climb gradually along mountain trails running along the headwaters of the Marsyangdi, crossing it at one point over an old wooden bridge. You then follow a narrow mountain path that leads you up to your overnight stay at Thorong Phedi. Overnight at a tea house.
Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800 m) - The crossing of the Pass.
Today is a long day, and you will start our journey at about 4 am. As soon as you leave Thorong Phedi, the trail becomes steep for two hours or so it takes you to get to High Camp (4,800m). From here, the terrain gets easier, but the hiking is no less tough as the altitude starts its wearing effects on you. After another two hours or so, you finally get to the pass with its plethora of prayer flags and excellent views. After a quick cup of tea and some food at the café at the pass, you will start to make the rocky descent to the remote but sizable town of Muktinath for your well-earned overnight stay. Don´t be surprised if you take longer today than anticipated, as you will need to feel in tune with the altitude and hope that the weather is favorable. The pass is also often covered in snow, and if so, this will make the going harder. Overnight at Tea House.
Muktinath to Jomsom (2,700 m)
Today you descend from Muktinath into the district of Mustang, where the scenery changes dramatically as you descend the Kali Gandaki valley into a landscape of stark, rocky, desolate beauty. You will go through the green oasis that is Kagbeni (2,800m), which stands out in stark contrast to the surrounding moonscape. Coming out of Kagbeni, you follow the broad, rugged course of the Kali Gandaki River, where thankfully the terrain is now quite flat. After a few more hours, you arrive at the end of your journey in the town of Jomsom, the headquarters of Mustang district. Or, if you do not want to walk, then you can take a local jeep ride to Jomsom. Overnight at the hotel.
Flight to Pokhara.
Flights are usually scheduled in the morning, so you will arrive in Pokhara with plenty of time. The rest of the day is free to relax, rejuvenate, and reflect on your successful journey. Overnight stay at a hotel in Pokhara.
Fly back to Kathmandu.
It is best to take an early afternoon flight back to Kathmandu. A free time in Kathmandu so you can have a walk around the local market to hunt for some last-minute souvenir pick-ups. Overnight hotel.
Departure transfer to the international airport.
Photo Gallery
