The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers a rare blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. With snow-capped peaks, clear lakes, and picturesque villages, it’s a stunning journey away from vehicular traffic. Traversing two river valleys, it culminates at Thorung La Pass (5,416 m/17,769 ft), showcasing breathtaking mountain vistas including Annapurna Massif and Dhaulagiri.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek begins in Pokhara and covers Bhulbhule, Jagat, Dharapani, Chame, and Pisang. The route follows the Marsyandghi River Valley, and much of it is covered by the Beisahar Manang Road. After acclimatizing at Manang, the trail continues to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi, where you’ll reach Thorong La Pass at 5,416 m (17,769 ft). Along the way, you can visit the sacred Muktinath Temple. Trekking further to Tatopani through lush forests, you’ll reach the popular viewpoint of Poon Hill (3,210m) for stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek concludes with a drive from Berithanti back to Pokhara.
Also Read: Everest Base Camp Trek vs Annapurna Circuit
Welcome to Nepal! Upon your arrival at the airport, an Asian Heritage Treks & Travel representative will be there to greet you, holding your nameplate. From the airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Along the way, you’ll pass through some important landmarks, including the Pashupatinath Temple, the Royal Palace Museum (also known as Narayanhity Palace), and the Garden of Dreams, before reaching Thamel, the tourist hub where your accommodation is located. The streets of Thamel offer plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Our tour guide will pick you up in a private vehicle. First, we’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kathmandu Durbar Square, known for its intricate wood-carved temples and historic buildings. Then, we’ll head to Swyambhunath, the monkey temple, offering a panoramic view of Kathmandu city and the Himalayas, showcasing religious harmony between Buddhism and Hinduism.
Next, we’ll visit Pashupatinath Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site in Southeast Asia. Witness the ritual body cremation ceremony on the banks of the holy Bagmati river. Lastly, we’ll explore another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath Stupa, dating back to 600 A.D. It’s a symbol of Buddhism worldwide. After sightseeing, we’ll return to the hotel for some rest.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Early in the morning, we will leave for Syange in a private vehicle. It takes about seven hours to get to Besisahar through the serpentine roads on the hill. Here, we will stop for lunch and snacks. There are several small towns among the green hills, and, certainly, you will not be bored. From Besisahar, Syange village is about an hour’s ride. You will get beautiful views of Mount Annapurna II, Mount Machhapuchhre, and Mount Lamjung.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Dharapani from Syange village. You will trek all the way through Jagat, Chyamche, Tal, Kyodo, and Karte (Khotro). Dharapani is situated at an elevation of 1860 meters above sea level. From Syange to Dharapani, the path goes up and down, but it is easy.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
Today you will see the breathtaking views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525 m). We also come across a small hot spring, which is a place to relax for a while.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
Today, the trek begins through the forest areas in a steep, narrow valley. You can enjoy the rugged beauty of the towering Paungda Danda and witness glacial erosion at its finest. The path then leads through the peaceful forest to the upper Manang Valley. Upon ascending further, we will reach Pisang, a large and sprawling village. This village has many lodges that offer delicious meals that challenge your taste buds.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
We will head towards Manang via Ngawal and Ghyaru. Here, spectacular views of the mountains and an exquisite view of the valley can be observed. The trail continues along the northern bank of the river before arriving at Ngawal. One can enjoy some free time and opportunities to explore and soak in nature’s beauty in its rawest form.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
If the situation allows, we will enjoy a short boating tour at Gangapurna Lake. We can visit the monasteries that are dotted around the area. Or, we can simply enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayas in the surrounding area. It is highly recommended that you pay attention to the advice of the Himalayan Rescue Association during your stay in Manang.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
Today, you will cross a stream and ascend to Tengi. You will continue ascending outside the Marsayangdi Valley and reach Ghunsang (3950 m). You will go through a scattered forest of barberry, juniper, and roses and also cross a large stream to reach Yak Kharka (4,050 m). From here, you will walk for an hour to reach Ledar.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
In the beginning, the trail will go to the to the right.. After we cross the suspension bridge, the trail goes left into the valley. We finally reach the Throung Phedi (4450 m/14596 ft) and walk straight up to the high camp. On this day, you will see Throung Peak and some more mountains.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
Today’s trekking starts around 4:00 a.m. Initially, you cross through Throung-La, 5416 m/17764 ft—the world’s largest pass. You can see the Dhaulagiri Massif straight west of the pass. Further, you will reach the village called Chirabu at the bottom of the pass and then Muktinath.
Then, we pass a tough descending trail (1600 m) to Muktinath. Muktinath has great religious significance. It is a pilgrimage center for both Buddhists and Hindus. You will meet the Tibetan traders, Sadhus (Holy men), and rock piles from visitors in exchange for a good fortune in their next life.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
In the morning, you will visit the Muktinath Temple. It’s a very important site for both Hindu and Buddhist religions. Also, you’ll visit the Buddhist Monastery and the famous natural gas light called the Flame of Muktinath. The Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountains can be clearly seen from here.
Later, we will start trekking to Kagbeni. The hike is downhill and easy. Passing by Tibetan-like villages, we reach Kagbeni. It is situated in the lower region of Mustang. You will have sufficient time to explore the monastery and/or village. You can interact with the locals to experience the local culture firsthand. Afterward, head for Jomsom to catch the flight to Pokhara the next morning.
Accommodation: an overnight stay in a trekking lodge.
According to the flight time, you will head towards the airport to catch the flight to Pokhara. It will take about 30 minutes to reach Pokhara. During the flight, you can see the mountains as well as the trail down to Tatopani/Ghorepani. Then, you can check in at the hotel in Pokhara.
Afterward, you have a full day to stroll around the city of Pokhara. You can enjoy roaming around the lakeside as well as having fun by boating in Phewa Lake. The shadow of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri Mountains on the water of Phewa Lake looks stunning.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar one in Pokhara.
Today, you’ll explore the picturesque Pokhara. Davi’s Falls, just a short drive away, is a must-see. Formed by the Pardi Khola, an outflow from Phewa Lake, the falls cascade into a mysterious cavern, creating breathtaking sprays.
The Seti Gandaki River, flowing through the heart of the town, is another highlight. Its milky color, derived from limestone in the soil, adds to its allure, with parts of it running underground. Nearby, Tibetan settlements offer handicrafts and Tibetan carpets. Additionally, we’ll visit Davi’s Waterfall, Gupteswor Mahadev, and the International Mountain Museum.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar one in Pokhara.
Today, we start with an early drive to Sarangkot to witness the tranquil beauty of the city before sunrise. The sight of the first rays of sunlight touching the mountains, including Annapurna, Fishtail, and Dhaulagiri, is truly magical.
Afterward, we’ll enjoy a boat ride on Phewa Lake and hike to Peace Stupa. Pokhara Shanti Stupa, situated on Anadu Hill in Kaski, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The boat trip from Pumdi Bhumdi Bay to Phewa Ghat takes about half an hour, allowing us to admire the Himalayan peaks reflected in the water. It’s a relaxing way to conclude our hike and enjoy the panoramic vistas at the World Peace Pagoda.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Crystal Palace or a similar one in Pokhara.
On this day, you will have a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, starting from Pokhara after breakfast. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your respective hotel and have a rest. In the evening, you can stroll around the downtown area of Thamel.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar one in Pokhara.
Today, our guide will greet you and drive you to Patan for sightseeing. In Patan, you’ll visit heritage sites like the Krishna Temple and Patan Durbar Square. Explore the Patan Museum to learn about its history and kings. Then, we’ll visit the Golden Temple and Banglamukhi Temple, important attractions for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Next, we’ll head to Bhaktapur to admire its architecture and old wood-carved buildings. Explore the area and visit Nyatapola Temple, Nepal’s largest temple. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a pottery-making class using traditional methods at Pottery Square. Learn to design and decorate your pot with beautiful patterns and inscriptions.
Accommodation: an overnight stay at Hotel Yatri Suites & Spa or a similar one in Pokhara.
Your trip comes to an end today. After breakfast, our representative will pick you up with a private van and drop you off at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport approximately three hours before your scheduled flight back to your home or other destination.
Have a safe journey onward, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future.
