The Annapurna Circuit is an incredibly varied and exciting once in a lifetime journey. Often referred to as Nepal’s ‘classic’ trek, the 128-mile route offers heaps more variety than any other equivalent length trek in the Himalayas. Circle Nepal’s heaven-high Annapurna range and expect to witness dramatic deep gorges, Buddhist temples, and lush rice paddy tiered valleys. Make your way through picturesque farming villages, narrow canyons and bleak high mountain passes. At every turn marvel at different views of the Annapurna summits, and immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring mountain region of Nepal.
The Annapurna Circuit is said to offer the most varied scenery of any classic Nepal trek
This magnificent trek through the snow-capped Himalaya takes you past Tilicho Lake, one of the highest in the world, onto the Thorong-La Pass at 5614m, and through the valley of Kali Gandaki – the deepest gorge in the world (three times deeper than the Grand Canyon!)
✓ Trek through the magnificent Annapurna Mountains
✓ Pass through the Thorong La Mountain Pass
✓ Learn about the sacred temple of Muktinath
✓ Stunning views of the Annapurna and its neighbouring peaks
✓ Relax in the beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara
✓ Stay at the famous village of Jomsom
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Oangdi is our awesome friend and Follow Alice local leader in Nepal! He is super experienced, having worked for TV companies filming in Mustang such as Al Jazeera. He has guided for people from all over the world, such as Switzerland, Russia, America, UK, Finland, Denmark among many others. He’s a registered guide and seen as he grew up in Upper Mustang, very experienced with the mountains! Oangdi is fluent in English, Nepal and Tibetan, and is an incredibly knowledgeable and experienced leader.
“Oangdi was really incredible on our journey through the Himalayas. I felt safe knowing he had such extensive knowledge and experience of the mountains! ” Kalvin Raymond
The Annapurna Circuit trek is hiked in an anticlockwise direction within Annapurna Massif located in the northwestern region of Kathmandu – the capital city of Nepal. This trek invites you to experience the world’s biggest trekking pass known as Thorung La Pass (5,416 m), which you will pass through on the seventh day of this trail.
The Annapurna Circuit boasts an abundance of memorable experiences. Take in the stunning views of Lamjung Himal (6,983 m), Annapurna II (7,937 m), IV (7,525 m), III (7,555 m), Ganggapurna (7454 m), Machhapuchhre (6,997 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Mt. Nilgiri (6,940 m), including the world’s seventh and tenth highest peak Mount Dhaulagiri (8,172 m) and Annapurna I (8,091 m). These are only a few of the many gems to be recalled on this trek!
“When it comes to picturesque panoramic viewpoints and breathtaking backdrops, the Annapurna Circuit does not disappoint” Eden Ayers
This trek offers much in the line of cultural escapades. An ancient and sacred temple, Muktinath Temple (reached on the 8th day) is yet another attraction of this trek. It is believed that taking bath under 108 waterspouts located in the backyard of the temple will rinse the past sins and achieve salvation.
Varied nature and culturally rich Annapurna Circuit trekking begins with 5/6 hours 176 km bus ride from Kathmandu to Besisahar. Next day again continues to 4/5 hrs drive to Chame. This is the trekking beginning point of this trip. After 4 days walking with proper acclimatisation and steadily gaining altitude, you will be crossing Thorong La Pass (5416 m – the main point of this trek). Similarly, discovering Muktinath, Jomsom, Tatopani, and Ghorepani will reach Pokhara on the 13th day. After spending one overnight at this beautiful city drive back to Kathmandu.
Today is the start of an incredible adventure! After an early rise, we make our way from Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, to the small village of Jagat. The drive is long, but the lush greenery, sprawling rice paddies and quaint villages are incredibly beautiful to pass through. This is the perfect time for you to get to know your fellow hikers. Now is also a good time to mentally prepare and set your intention for the trek ahead.
Another day of driving is on the cards today. From Jagat, we make our way to Pisang. The village that is a divided into two parts, Upper and Lower Pisang. We head to Lower Pisang where we will stay the night before embarking on the start of our trek tomorrow morning.
The start of our trek has arrived! From Lower Pisang, our trail continues through to Manang District. The residents of Manang District grow crops of maize for the yaks that are herded here. There is a distinct Tibetan influence here, which makes for a nice change in scenery.
Today we embark on a scenic trek to Ice Lake before making our way back to Manang. This is a good opportunity for your body to acclimatise. Ice Lake is picturesque to say the least, and you will be blown away by the expansive crystal clear views.
Today is acclimatisation day! We will take more of a slow paced walk so this gives your body time to adapt to the increase in altitude. We visit the Himalayan Rescue Associations Clinic before heading to our teahouse for the night. Take it at your own pace and relax once you reach your destination for the night.
This morning we depart Manang and trek to Yak Kharka where Yak farmers bring their cattle to graze. This trail peaks at 4018m and gives way to the beautiful views of the landscape below.
This relatively short day of trekking is also a great opportunity to acclimatise. The trail ascends up the valley before dipping back down to cross the river. This is a prime example of climbing high and sleeping low – the best way to acclimatise on the mountain.
Today proves to be slightly more challenging as we aim to reach the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit – the Thorung La. The trail reaches an incredible altitude of 5416m. The view from here can be described as purely awe-inspiring as you gaze upon the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. We then begin a steep descent through the deepest gorge in the world – the Kali Gandaki before arriving in Muktinath where we stay the night. Congratulations on reaching the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit!
Today you will be happy to stay off your feet for a while as we drive from Muktinath to Jomsom. This 3-4 hour drive is a great opportunity for you to relax and reflect on the incredible journey you have just completed!
Today we take a short flight back to Pokhara from Jomsom and make our way to Mount Kailash Resort where we will stay the night. Pokhara is home to the second largest city population in Nepal and is a must see for anybody visiting Nepal. The beautiful city by the lake is a great place to relax and unwind after your Annapurna Circuit trek.
Today is our last full day in beautiful Nepal and what an adventure it has been! By now you will have broadened your adventure horizons and made new friends along the way. We make our way back to Kathmandu before our departure tomorrow. We stay the night at Yatri Suites and Spa.
Time to say goodbye and leave Nepal with memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. We’re going to miss you!
“Trekking in the Himalayas and walking amongst the clouds is an experience I will never forget” Aneesha Petersen
1 Review
Fun times!
Well thought out itinerary with excellent (mountain) accommodations. I would recommend this organisation to any friend or family member.