The Annapurna Circuit trek is the ‘mother’ of trekking routes in Nepal. With excellent lodges, tea houses and tourist infrastructure it is well established to cater for all types of trekker. The high point of the trek is definitely the crossing of the 5414m high Thorong Pass, a crossing into the arid valley of the Upper Manang, home of Tibeto- Buddhists, descending to the Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site of Muktinath, and the Kali Gandaki valley, the world’s deepest river gorge, before heading down to Pokhara. Besides the mountain views, the trek passes through a variety of geographical zones with their mountain communities of Gurung, Manangi and Thakali people.
The trek starts right from Syange and follows along the Marshyangdi River, with terrific views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east. As the trek continues to the north of the main Himalayan range and onto the high and dry Tibetan Plateau, the scenery is equally breath taking. This trek certainly provides all those who travel these trails a deep insight into all aspects of Nepali life and culture.
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Take the day to relax and adjust to the city’s pace.
Day 02: A Morning of Guided Sightseeing
Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa, to experience Kathmandu’s spiritual and cultural richness.
Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar
In the morning, drive from Kathmandu to Besi Shahar (around 6-7 hours), the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit. Enjoy views of the countryside as you pass through small villages and lush landscapes.
Day 04: Drive to Syange and Trek to Chamje (1,560m)
After a short drive to Syange, the trek begins. Cross the Marsyangdi River, passing through forests and rural settlements, and reach Chamje, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 05: Trek to Bagarchhap (2,160m)
Continue trekking along the river valley, passing through dense pine forests and several small villages, finally reaching Bagarchhap. The views of the Annapurna Range begin to open up as you gain elevation.
Day 06: Trek to Chame (2,630m)
A steady climb through forests and past waterfalls brings you to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. You’ll notice the climate becoming more alpine, and the landscape starts to change with spectacular mountain views.
Day 07: Trek to Pisang (3,300m)
Continue on the scenic trail, climbing above the Marsyangdi Valley to Pisang. The route is dotted with stunning views of Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal, and other towering peaks.
Day 08: Trek to Manang (3,540m)
Trek to Manang, passing through the village of Humde. Manang is a popular stop for trekkers to rest and acclimatize. The town offers great views of the Annapurna range and is a perfect place to explore.
Day 09: Acclimatization Day in Manang
Take this day to adjust to the altitude. Consider a short hike up to the nearby glaciers or visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic to learn about high-altitude trekking.
Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka (4,000m)
Trek from Manang towards Yak Kharka. The trail takes you across alpine meadows with yak herders’ settlements, and you’ll notice the terrain becoming more barren as you approach the higher altitudes.
Day 11: Trek to Thorong Phedi (4,450m)
Trek through dry and rocky terrain to reach Thorong Phedi, the base camp for the next day’s ascent of the Thorong La Pass. The views of the surrounding peaks are striking as you approach the pass.
Day 12: Trek to Muktinath (3,800m) via Thorong La Pass (5,416m)
This is the most challenging day of the trek. You’ll begin early to cross Thorong La, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, followed by a descent to Muktinath, a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists.
Day 13: Drive to Tatopani (Hot Springs)
After a day of challenging trekking, relax with a drive to Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs. Take a dip to soothe your tired muscles.
Day 14: Trek from Tatopani to Shikha (2,020m)
Begin your trek to Shikha, passing through beautiful villages and terraced fields. The walk is relatively easy, offering more fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 15: Trek from Shikha to Ghorepani (2,834m)
Trek to Ghorepani, a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit. Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges as you approach the village.
Day 16: Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Trek to Tadapani (2,520m)
Early morning, hike up to Poon Hill for a breathtaking sunrise view of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Afterward, trek to Tadapani, surrounded by rhododendron forests.
Day 17: Trek to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara, then onto Kathmandu
Enjoy your last day of trekking as you descend to Nayapul. From there, drive back to Pokhara, and then return to Kathmandu by bus or flight.
– International flight tickets
– Nepal Visa
-Client’s trek Insurance appropriate to Nepal (including helicopter rescue)
– Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (or other town)
– Laundry and subsistence costs
– Excess baggage costs (to be determined in Kathmandu) Max 10 Kg domestic cargo + 5 Kg hand luggage per person
– Tips and gratuities (discretionary)
– Drinking water / food on trek outside identified meal times
– Showers
– Battery charging costs
– Any costs related to early evacuation from trek (insurance should cover this with the appropriate official documents from Nepal) and all other expenses outside of those identified above are to be met by the clients.
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