Annapurna Circuit Trek – 13 days
Tour Overview
The Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal’s most iconic trekking routes, stretching roughly 160 to 230 kilometers around the majestic Annapurna range. Despite the growing presence of paved roads in some areas, the trek still offers an unforgettable experience for hikers from around the world.
Each year, about 20% of all trekkers coming to Nepal choose this route—and it’s easy to see why. The trail takes you through stunning landscapes, from lush valleys and terraced fields to alpine forests and high mountain passes. The variety of terrain and scenery is truly unmatched.
Since the trek reaches high altitudes—especially at Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters)—it’s important to be aware of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is key, and we strongly recommend trekking with a licensed guide or company. Solo trekking is not advised due to safety concerns.
Itinerary
Your journey begins the moment you land in Kathmandu. Our team will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel, where you can relax and recover from your flight. Either later that evening or the following morning, we’ll hold a short briefing to go over the trek details and introduce you to your guide.
After breakfast, we begin our journey with a scenic drive out of Kathmandu Valley. The road winds through lush hills and charming villages as we head toward Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From there, we switch to a rugged mountain road and continue by private jeep to Dharapani, a peaceful village nestled at 1,960 meters. This marks the official start of our trek.
Today’s trek takes us deeper into the Annapurna region as we follow the Marsyangdi River upstream. The trail winds through dense pine forests, charming villages, and dramatic cliffs. As we gain altitude, the air gets cooler and the views become more spectacular. After a steady walk, we reach Chame—the district headquarters of Manang—where you’ll find hot springs and stunning views of Lamjung Himal. It’s a great place to rest and soak in the mountain atmosphere.
Today’s trail leads us through dense forests and narrow valleys carved by the Marsyangdi River. As we ascend, the landscape opens up to reveal dramatic views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The air gets crisper, and the terrain shifts from lush greenery to alpine beauty. After a steady walk, we arrive in Pisang—a picturesque village surrounded by towering cliffs and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the mountain spirit.
Today’s trek offers two route options—one via Upper Pisang and the other through the valley floor. The higher trail, though more challenging, rewards you with breathtaking views of Annapurna II, III, IV, and Pisang Peak. As you walk past ancient monasteries and windswept cliffs, the landscape shifts to dry alpine terrain, hinting at the Tibetan influence in the region.
After several hours of trekking, you’ll reach Manang, a vibrant village nestled beneath towering peaks. It’s a key acclimatization stop, with cozy lodges, bakeries, and panoramic viewpoints that make it a favorite among trekkers.
Today is all about adjusting to the altitude and giving your body time to adapt before heading higher. But rest doesn’t mean staying idle—after a relaxed morning, we’ll take a short hike to Gangapurna Lake, a glacial gem nestled beneath towering peaks. The walk offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the turquoise waters of the lake, making it a perfect way to stretch your legs while acclimatizing.
In the afternoon, you can explore Manang’s charming alleys, visit local monasteries, or simply enjoy a warm drink with a view. This day helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable trek ahead.
After a restful acclimatization day in Manang, we continue our ascent toward Yak Kharka. The trail climbs gradually through alpine meadows and juniper forests, passing yak pastures and small settlements along the way. As we gain altitude, the air becomes thinner and the views more expansive—snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon.
Yak Kharka, a quiet stopover at 4,110 meters, offers a peaceful setting to rest and prepare for the higher elevations ahead. It’s a great place to monitor your body’s response to altitude and enjoy the serenity of the high Himalayas.
Today’s trek takes us deeper into the alpine zone as we make our way to Thorong Phedi, the last major stop before crossing the Thorong La Pass. The trail ascends gradually, winding through rugged terrain and sparse vegetation. You’ll pass through Ledar and cross a few suspension bridges over glacial streams, with dramatic views of the Chulu peaks and the Marsyangdi Valley below.
As we approach Thorong Phedi, the landscape becomes more barren and windswept—a stark reminder of the altitude. This small settlement at 4,450 meters serves as a base camp for trekkers preparing to tackle the pass early the next morning. Rest well, hydrate, and get ready for one of the most exhilarating days of the trek.
Crossing the Highest Trekking Pass in the World
Today marks the most challenging and exhilarating day of the trek. We begin before dawn, ascending steeply from Thorong Phedi toward the legendary Thorong-La Pass—standing tall at 5,416 meters, it’s one of the highest navigable passes on Earth. The early start helps avoid strong winds and ensures safer passage across the snow-covered trail.
As you climb, the landscape transforms into a dramatic high-altitude wilderness. The final push to the pass is demanding but deeply rewarding. At the summit, prayer flags flutter in the crisp mountain air, and panoramic views stretch across the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges—a moment of pure Himalayan majesty.
From the pass, the trail descends sharply toward Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. The descent offers stunning views of Mustang’s arid terrain and marks your transition from alpine to trans-Himalayan landscapes. By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Muktinath, where spiritual serenity meets cultural richness.
After exploring the spiritual haven of Muktinath, we trade trekking boots for four wheels and begin a scenic drive toward Tatopani. The route winds through the Kali Gandaki Gorge—one of the deepest in the world—offering dramatic views of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and traditional villages nestled into the hillsides.
As we descend, the landscape shifts from arid Mustang terrain to lush subtropical valleys. By afternoon, we arrive in Tatopani, a tranquil village famed for its natural hot springs. It’s the perfect place to unwind, soak tired muscles, and reflect on the high-altitude adventures of the past few days.
After a rejuvenating stay in Tatopani, we begin our scenic drive back to Pokhara. The route follows the Kali Gandaki River, passing through lush valleys, terraced fields, and charming hillside villages. As we descend, the air grows warmer and the landscape greener—marking a gentle return to the lowlands.
By afternoon, we arrive in Pokhara, Nepal’s beloved lakeside city. With its serene Phewa Lake, vibrant cafés, and stunning mountain backdrop, Pokhara offers the perfect place to unwind, celebrate your trek, and reflect on the incredible journey through the Annapurna region.
After breakfast in Pokhara, we take a short scenic flight back to Kathmandu, offering one last aerial glimpse of the majestic Himalayas. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can relax, refresh, and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve completed.
In the evening, we gather for a celebratory farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant. It’s a time to share stories, toast to new friendships, and savor authentic flavors that capture the spirit of Nepal. From high mountain passes to sacred temples and serene lakes, this trek has been a tapestry of adventure, culture, and personal triumph.
After breakfast, our team will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your outbound flight. As you leave Nepal, you carry with you unforgettable memories—from high mountain passes and sacred temples to warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes.
We thank you for trekking with us and hope to welcome you back for another Himalayan adventure. Until then—Namaste and safe journey!

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