These highlights make the Annapurna Circuit Trek a truly unforgettable journey, blending natural wonders, cultural experiences, and physical challenges.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a legendary trekking route in Nepal, renowned for its breathtaking scenery, cultural diversity, and challenging trails. Spanning 160-230 kilometers, this trek offers an unparalleled adventure through the heart of the Himalayas, encircling the majestic Annapurna Massif. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning views of towering peaks like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare, while traversing through lush subtropical forests, arid high-altitude deserts, and traditional villages rich in Tibetan-Buddhist culture. Highlights include crossing the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, visiting the sacred Muktinath Temple, and soaking in the natural hot springs of Tatopani. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural immersion, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a bucket-list experience for adventurers seeking to explore one of the world’s most iconic trekking destinations. Ideal for trekking from March to May and September to November, this journey promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all who embark on it.
Our trek begins early in the morning. After enjoying breakfast, we board a bus from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule. The journey takes us out of the Kathmandu Valley, following the scenic Trishuli River towards Besisahar, and eventually reaching Bhulbhule. Nestled by the side of the Marsyangdi River, Bhulbhule offers our first glimpse of the stunning landscapes ahead. As we travel, we are treated to views of terraced farms, traditional villages, and the majestic snow-capped peaks of Ganesh and Manaslu. Upon arrival in Bhulbhule, we register our permits at the check post, officially marking the start of our trekking adventure.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll begin our trek, following a scenic trail through lush jungle and terraced fields alongside the Marsyangdi River. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch break and pass through various rural settlements and expansive farmlands. Our destination is the tranquil village of Jagat, a historic trading post that marks the end of our day’s journey.
On the third day of our trek, we continue along the Marsyangdi River, ascending steeply until we reach the Manang region near Tal village. Here, you’ll be greeted by picturesque waterfalls cascading into sandy riverbanks. As we hike, we traverse fields of barley, rice, and potatoes, eventually arriving at Kodo, one of the largest villages in the Manang Valley. From there, we cross a suspension bridge and climb a short stone Kani to reach our destination for the day: Dharapani.
Leaving Dharapani, we follow a trail through lush forests of pine, fir, oak, and maple along the Marsyangdi River, heading towards Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Surrounded by verdant greenery, you’ll enjoy striking views of the towering Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We’ll also take a brief break at a small hot spring to relax and rejuvenate before continuing our journey.
After breakfast, we set out through a steep and narrow valley, where we encounter the impressive Paungda Danda Rock. This sacred rock face rises 1,500 meters above the Marsyangdi River and is highly revered by the locals. As we continue along the trail, we enjoy clear views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Our path then descends to the floor of the Manang Valley, leading us to the village of Pisang, where we will spend the night.
On our sixth day, we trek along the upper trails through Upper Pisang and Geru, where we are rewarded with stunning views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. As we ascend, the air becomes colder, drier, and harsher. The trail winds through Tibetan settlements, offering a glimpse into Buddhist culture. We will visit the Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in Manang, and pass by numerous Buddhist shrines and monasteries. Our journey concludes in Manang Bazaar, a lively area that caters to tourists.
Today is dedicated to acclimatization, but we'll stay active exploring Manang village. In the morning, we’ll visit the Gangapurna and Ice Lakes, and spend the rest of the day admiring the stunning views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks. In the afternoon, we may visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraja village, where we’ll receive important information on acute mountain sickness, including its symptoms and prevention strategies.
After acclimatizing in Manang and giving our bodies time to adjust to the altitude, we proceed to Yak Kharka. We start by crossing a stream and ascending to Tenki village, then continue northwest out of the Marshyangdi Valley into the Jar Sang Khola Valley. The trail gradually ascends as we head north. Along the way, we pass through lush pastures and juniper forests, and encounter the small village of Gunsan with its flat-roofed mud houses. You'll also see yak and horse pastures. After crossing a small river via a wooden bridge, we ascend through a stunning valley to reach Yak Kharka, an open and serene meadow where we’ll spend the night.
Today, we make our way to Thorong Phedi, the base camp for Thorong La Pass. Departing from Yak Kharka, we first climb up to a ridge, then descend to cross the Marsyangdi River via a wooden bridge. We continue our ascent along a narrow trail that traverses a slope before reaching Thorong Phedi. The landscape here is stark and rugged, a dramatic contrast to the lush lowlands we traversed earlier in the trek. The otherworldly terrain reflects the high-altitude environment we are entering.
Today is a standout day as we trek from Thorong Phedi (4,525m/14,845ft) to Muktinath Temple (3,760m/12,623ft) via the Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft), one of the highest passes in the world and the highest point of our trek. We start early in the morning, braving the icy air and high altitude. The effort is rewarded with spectacular views from the pass, including a panoramic vista of majestic Himalayan peaks to the north towards Tibet and the Annapurna range behind us.
Our descent leads us to Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Known as Chumig Gyatsa in Tibetan, meaning "Hundred Waters," Muktinath Temple is renowned for its 108 stone spouts fed by the Kali Gandaki River and its eternal flame that has been burning for over 2,000 years.
In the morning, we visit the Muktinath Temple before embarking on a local bus ride to Tatopani. The drive can be rugged as it traverses some of the deepest gorges in the world, transitioning from the arid highlands to verdant forests. Upon arrival in Tatopani, known for its natural hot springs, we can unwind by soaking in the therapeutic waters. These hot springs are reputed to have healing properties for various skin conditions, offering a relaxing end to a challenging day.
Leaving the hot springs behind, we cross to the east side of the Kali Gandaki River and ascend towards Ghorepani, passing through the ethnic Thakali villages of Sikha and Chitre. Our trek winds through terraced farmlands with panoramic mountain views and lush forests of rhododendron, birch, and magnolia. We’ll reach Ghorepani, a picturesque village perched on a ridge, where we’ll spend the night.
On our final day on the trail, we rise early to trek to Poon Hill (3,210m) for a spectacular sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs, including the iconic Mt. Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Poon Hill is a prime spot for capturing stunning photographs of the Himalayan panorama. After enjoying the breathtaking views and taking as many photos as we desire, we return to our lodge in Ghorepani for breakfast. Following breakfast, we trek to Birethanti and then take a bus to Pokhara, concluding our trek.
Today marks the end of your Annapurna Circuit package. We start the day in Pokhara and, after breakfast, board a tourist bus for the drive back to Kathmandu. The 200 km journey follows the Marsyangdi River and later the Trishuli River. Alternatively, you can opt for a 25-minute flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu (not included in the package). Our trek concludes upon reaching Kathmandu.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking route in Nepal that circumnavigates the Annapurna mountain range. It offers stunning views of peaks like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu, along with diverse landscapes and cultures.
The trek typically lasts between 14 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and trekking pace. This duration includes acclimatization days and buffer days for unexpected weather conditions.
The best times to trek the Annapurna Circuit are during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and post-monsoon (September to November) seasons. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions and clear mountain views.
Trekkers need two permits: the TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). These permits can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
While it’s possible to trek independently, hiring a local guide and/or porter can enhance the experience by providing valuable local knowledge, support, and assistance with carrying gear.
Accommodation along the Annapurna Circuit typically consists of teahouses or lodges. These provide basic amenities such as beds, meals, and hot showers, though standards may vary.
Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, warm clothing, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and sunscreen. Also, consider packing a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and personal hygiene items.
The trek is considered moderately challenging, with high-altitude sections and varying terrain. Proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization are crucial to handle the altitude and terrain effectively.
The highest point on the Annapurna Circuit is the Thorong La Pass, which is at an altitude of approximately 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Proper acclimatization is essential to manage the altitude.
Potential health risks include altitude sickness, dehydration, and gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to stay hydrated, acclimatize properly, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness to ensure a safe trekking experience.
1. Physical Preparation:
2. Trekking Gear:
3. Health and Safety:
4. Permits and Documentation:
5. Cultural Etiquette:
6. Communication and Connectivity:
7. Food and Water:
8. Environmental Responsibility:
9. Emergency Procedures:
10. Currency and Expenses:
11. Local Support:
Proper preparation and understanding of these aspects will help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and successful Annapurna Circuit Trek.
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