Annapurna Circuit Trek

Overview

The Annapurna circuit trek encircles the circuit of Annapurna, connecting the Himalayan region and the Annapurna Himalayas. The highest Himalayan pass, Thorung Pass (5416m), and the deepest gorge of the Kali Gandaki River are the prime focus of this trek along with the breathtaking Himalayan scenery and the beautiful landscape of the Muktinath region. The white peaks look outstanding during the trek in the Annapurna circuit trail.

The trek starts in the tropical region of the Besisahar, which is the district headquarter of the Lamjung district. You will be passing various ethnic and indigenous villages in the Marshyangdi valley. When you reach Manang, you can experience the Tibetan Buddhist traditions and lifestyle. Then, your physical strength and acclimatization will increase because you have to face the real challenge at the Thorong Pass. You can see the stunning views of Mt. Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Fishtail and the neighbouring peaks. After crossing this pass, you descend to Muktinath temple and to Jomsom via Kabeni. The landscape here is similar to the Upper Mustang. Walking through the world’s deepest gorge is amazing, and you can enjoy the breath-taking landscape. If you have time to trek more, you can trek down and join the Poon Hill route or fly to Pokhara and conclude the trek.

Note: The road construction has shortened the Annapurna circuit itinerary. However, Malaika Travel won’t leave you feeling disappointed. Our experienced guides will lead you through a different trail, avoiding motor ways. Feel free to contact us for more details.

Day to day itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

Welcome to the enchanting, exotic and energetic city of Kathmandu! The capital of Nepal is steeped in centuries of history and tradition. Immerse yourself in its vibrant markets, ancient temples, the bustle of spice sellers and street merchants and the welcoming nature of its locals. Kathmandu with its exhilarating allure is a city you won’t forget!

You’ll be met at the airport by your guide and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar (760m) [6 hrs]

The day begins with drive to Besisahar, into the hills on a winding road along the Trishuli River. On the way we admire terraced farms and beautiful huts with green hills.

Day 3: Drive Besisahar to Chame (2600m) [6-7 hrs]

Today we drive the off-road with unpaved road. The road follows the Marsyangdi River, driving towards Dharapani and continue onwards to Chame through pine and fir forest. As the trail ascends through the forest there are incredible views overlooking the valley and of Annapurna II (7937m). Here you really start to get the feeling of being in the high mountains of the Himalaya. Before reaching Chame – the administrative centre of the Manang District we’ll also get to see outstanding views of Mt. Manaslu (8156m) and Peak 29 (7871m).

Day 4: Chame to Pisang (3200m)

The day begins as we exit the village past a prayer wheel leading into deep pine forest. Here the Marsyangdi Valley narrows and becomes at one of its steepest points with the trail carved right into the vertical rock face. As we pass this point the valley opens up to reveal a majestic mountain vista, where the Paungda Danda rock face towers over 1500m above the trailhead.

Local Gurungs believe that atop Paungda Danda is the Gateway to Heaven. This impressive view follows with us as we ascend to Pisang.

Day 5: Pisang to Manang (3540m)

The trail continues throughout the upper part of the Manang District where the Tibetan/Buddhist influence can be seen throughout. People in this region herd yaks and raise crops such as maize. Leaving Pisang, there are two options that follow the Marsyangdi River both of which meet up again in the village of Mungji and Braga, with its beautiful monastery – the southern route or the northern route.

The southern route involves a gentle climb following alongside the river. The northern route is a bit more demanding and strenuous, climbing up the north ridge of the valley. The views along the upper northern route of the Annapurna’s are stunning! We always have two guides on our treks, which means there is the option to split the group for this day.

Day 6: Acclimatisation day

Today is a rest and acclimatisation day. There are a number of day walks available to do that offer amazing views, whilst also gaining altitude. Possibilities include hiking up the hill (400m ascent) behind Manang and visiting the monastery. Here you can get magnificent views of the entire Annapurna range and the enormous icefall that can be seen crashing down from Gangapurna.

Another option is to take a challenging hike to Ice Lake (4500m), which takes about 5-6 hours and offers stunning views of the region. In the evening the perfect end to the day is to sit back and watch as the sun sets over the Himalaya.

Day 7: Manang to Yak Kharka (4018m)

Leaving Manang in the morning we head towards the base of the Thorung La. Climbing out of the Marsyangdi Valley, following instead, the Jarsang Khola. Here we are far above the pine and fir forests and are truly immersed in the beauty of the high Himalaya. Today is a shorter day, taking it slowly as we reach Yak Kharka (Yak Huts) – where yak herders bring their animals to graze.

Day 8: Yak Kharka to Thorang Phedi (4450m)

This is another short day to aid in acclimatisation. The scenery becomes wilder as we continue ascending the valley. The trail descends to cross the river, rising up to our highest lodge at 4450m. Phedi in Nepali means foot of the pass, and indeed it’s true, as it is below tomorrow’s objective – the Thorang La.

Day 9: Cross the Thorang La (5416m) to Muktinath (3800m)

We rise early and begin our ascent. We take the path slowly, one step at a time until we reach the Annapurna Circuit’s highest point, the Thorang La, at a breathtaking 5416m high. The pass summit is quite broad, and opens up to reveal an incredible, sweeping panorama of snow-capped peaks extending towards Tibet. Looking back to where we have come offers views of the Annapurna’s.

Descending and directly in front of us is the impressive chasm of the Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world. The descent is long, starting gently, but increasing in steepness, following a series of switchbacks leading to the grassy slopes and holy town of Muktinath (3800m). Muktinath is surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes and with unparalleled views of Dhaulagiri (8167m), the world’s 7th highest mountain.

Day 10: Muktinath to Marpha (2670m)

In the morning we will take a visit to Muktinath temple, this temple is important to Hindus and Buddhists alike. Many people come here on pilgrimage and it is possible for you to enter and witness some of the religious ceremonies. It is a great example of how two religions can share the same holy spot with mutual respect and support. All this before we descend to Marpha.

Day 11: Drive Marpha to Pokhara (800m)

A perfect day to rest your feet without missing out on the stunning views. Climb in, grab a seat and enjoy this breathtaking drive on mountain tracks and across riverbeds with unforgettable views of Nilgiri peak, an impressive 6995m high. We’ll stop en-route at a natural hot springs. The perfect way to indulge your tired muscles after trekking. Further drive to Pokhara, overnight at Pokhara.

Day 12: Rest day at Pokhara/Explore Pokhara

Today we can have some sightseeing around Pokhara for about 3/4 hrs. And rest of the time can be spent for shopping and walk around the lakeside.

Day 13: Drive back to Kathmandu [6-7 hrs]

Today we drive back to Kathmandu following the gorge of the Trisuli River, arriving in Kathmandu in the afternoon. Wander around the medieval Durbar Square in the heart of the city, sample some Newari cuisine, or shop for some locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.

We will have a group farewell dinner in the evening at a local restaurant.

Day 14: Kathmandu valley Sightseeing

The Kathmandu sightseeing trip will begin in the morning. After breakfast, you will be taken to Buddhist pilgrimage Swoyambhunath, famous by the name of Monkey temple among tourists. Then, we will visit Patan Durbar (Palace) square, one of the heritage sites where you can view many historical and cultural monuments. Later, after lunch at Patan you will visit another heritage site known as Pashupatinath Temple. This is a sacred Hindu Temple of Lord Shiva. Which is always crowded by Hindu pilgrims. Likewise, Boudhanath Shrine will be covered by the evening. O/N at Hotel.

Day 15: Transfer to the Airport

Today, we will drive you to the Tribhuvan International Airport about 3 hours before your flight.