Annapurna Region Trekking in Nepal Annapurna Circuit Trek

Your arrival in Kathmandu will be marked by landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). A company representative of Himalayan Adventure Treks & Tours will receive you and transfer you to your hotel. Evening you can meet the participants and the trek members. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

 Today you drive along the Kathmandu-Pokhara Highway to Dumre and then follow the narrow and paved road by the Marshyangdi River to Beshisahar, the district headquarters of Lamjung district. All the local government offices are situated here. From here, you can see some mountain peaks, natural sceneries surrounding the valley, and the daily activities of local people.

This headquarters is the center from where the daily usable commodities are supplied to the different villages and numerous towns.

The first part of the trail passes on a flat level along the bank of the Marshyangdi river. You can enjoy the sceneries and the local culture of the Gurung community. After lunch, the trail goes steeply upwards to Bahundanda which takes about 2 hours. From this point, you can see the area surrounded by eye-catching scenarios with snow-capped mountains.

A steep trail descends for early half an hour and then follows a flat path through rice terraces before crossing a stream at the bottom of a small waterfall. It then climbs again and traverses the hillside high above the river before reaching the village of Lali Gaon. Ahead the Marshyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape and you follow the winding mountain path down through Syange (1100m).

where there is a beautiful waterfall above and along the river for some distance. The trail then climbs steeply and the path is cut into the sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. Eventually, you descend to the stone village of Jagat (1330m) situated on a shelf juts into the precipitous Marshyangdi valley.

The first part of the trail descends to the river, and after crossing a suspension bridge, you begin a climb to Sattale (1550m) on a path so steep that it seems one slip would send you hurtling down into the valley. You continue on an undulating path above the river, and at one point, where a tributary flows in from the opposite bank, the main river becomes covered with huge boulders that hide the water.

Climbing the zigzag path to the top of the hill, you see the level, plain of Tal (1700m). Though it is a cliff enclose, the level area looks reassuring after the harrowing mountain paths just traveled on. You descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to Tal with its hotels and teahouses. Here you can enjoy the exhilarating waterfalls. Beyond Tal, the valley narrows and the path becomes high and winding and in several areas hewn from the rock itself.

Beyond the small village of Karte (1900m), there is a bit more cliff-walking before the path drops again to the river. You cross a suspension bridge and climb the short distance to the stone Mani marking the entrance to Dharapani (1960m).

You climb through forests of pine and oak as you pass through Danaque (2210m). Soon, there comes a small wooden bridge that will take you on a steeply ascending path up to Timang which lies at the bottom of Lamajung Himal. The trail goes then on a flat level until you reach Chame, where you will find government offices, shops, and hotels. Chame is the administrative headquarters for the Manang district.

With Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun, you set off for Pisang. You continue through a fir and pine forest, climbing to a high, rocky area as the opposite bank becomes an impassable cliff. From this point, the valley becomes extremely steep-sided as you follow the path to Bhratang (2950m).

You now walk through a pine forest and as the forest ends, the valley changes from a V-shape to a gentle U-shape, opening up a wonderful vista before you. You can see the east peak of Annapurna II as well as Pisang Peak (6091m) to the northeast. Continuing on, you come to a long Mani wall by a bridge and the lower village of Pisang.

Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge that affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m). Descending past Manang’s airstrip at Humde (3320m), you come to a level area from where the northeast face of Annapurna III rises majestically above you. From the wide plains of the Sabje Khola Valley, Annapurna IV (7525m) also becomes visible.

Just beyond this point, you cross the considerably reduced flow of the Marshyangdi Khola via a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. After a short steep climb, you reach Manang which is a surprisingly large village for this remote mountain region.

This is an important rest and acclimatization day today before crossing the Thorong La. There are optional day walks such as crossing the river to see the tremendous icefall coming down from the Annapurnas, or climbing high above the village for a full panorama of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley or you can visit Ganagapurna Glacier Lake to make your rest day a memorable one.

Day 10 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek involves a trek from Manang to Yak Kharka. Yak Kharka is a high-altitude pasture located in the Manang District of Nepal, and is a popular stop for trekkers on the way to Thorong La Pass.

The trek from Manang to Yak Kharka takes approximately 3-4 hours and involves a gradual ascent through the alpine terrain of the region. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

Yak Kharka is located at an altitude of 4350 meters and is an important stop for trekkers to acclimate to the high altitude before continuing on to Thorong La Pass. The pasture is surrounded by beautiful alpine meadows and is home to several small teahouses and lodges where trekkers can spend the night.

It's important to note that high-altitude treks like this one can be physically demanding, so it's essential to take acclimatization seriously. This means taking regular breaks, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol and other high-altitude hazards. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Day 11 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek involves a trek from Yak Kharka to either Thorong Phedi or High Camp. Thorong Phedi is located at an altitude of 4420 meters, and High Camp is located at an altitude of 4926 meters.

The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi or High Camp takes approximately 3-5 hours, depending on which destination you choose. The trail ascends gradually through the alpine terrain, providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail).

Thorong Phedi is a small settlement located at the foot of Thorong La Pass and is the last stop for trekkers before crossing the pass. High Camp is a higher-altitude settlement located above Thorong Phedi and is a popular place for trekkers to spend the night before crossing the pass the following day.

Both Thorong Phedi and High Camp are located at high altitudes, so it's important to acclimate properly and take care to avoid altitude sickness. This means taking regular breaks, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol and other high-altitude hazards. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding days, as it involves crossing Thorong La Pass. Thorong La Pass is a high mountain pass located at an altitude of 5416 meters and is the highest point on the trek.

The trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass takes approximately 7-8 hours and involves a steep ascent to the pass, followed by a steep descent to Muktinath. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Nilgiri.

At the top of Thorong La Pass, trekkers will reach a cairn marking the highest point of the trek. From there, they will begin the steep descent to Muktinath, a sacred Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage site located in the Mustang District of Nepal.

Muktinath is located at an altitude of 3850 meters and is a popular stop for trekkers on the way to Jomsom. The settlement is home to several temples and shrines, as well as several guesthouses and lodges where trekkers can spend the night.

It's important to note that the ascent to Thorong La Pass can be physically demanding, especially at high altitude. It's essential to take acclimatization seriously and to avoid altitude sickness. This means taking regular breaks, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol and other high-altitude hazards. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Annapurna Circuit Trek involves a trek from Muktinath to Marpha. Marpha is a small settlement located in the Mustang District of Nepal and is a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek from Muktinath to Marpha takes approximately 5-6 hours and involves a gradual descent through the alpine terrain of the region. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding peaks, as well as the Kali Gandaki River, which runs through the deep valley below.

Marpha is a charming settlement known for its traditional architecture, local apple orchards, and a variety of trekking-related services. The settlement is home to several guesthouses and lodges, as well as several shops and restaurants where trekkers can rest and replenish their supplies.

After the strenuous days of trekking and crossing Thorong La Pass, the descent to Marpha provides a welcome opportunity to rest and recover. However, it's important to remember that even a gentle descent can still cause altitude sickness, so it's essential to take acclimatization seriously and to avoid alcohol and other high-altitude hazards. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Today Trek involves a trek from Marpha to Ghasa. Ghasa is a small settlement located in the lower part of the Kali Gandaki Valley and is a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek from Marpha to Ghasa takes approximately 5-6 hours and involves a gradual descent through the alpine terrain of the region. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding peaks, as well as the Kali Gandaki River, which runs through the deep valley below.

Ghasa is a small settlement known for its tranquil atmosphere and local hospitality. The settlement is home to several guesthouses and lodges, as well as several shops and restaurants where trekkers can rest and replenish their supplies.

After several days of trekking in the higher elevations, the descent to Ghasa provides a welcome opportunity to acclimate to lower altitudes. However, it's important to remember that even a gentle descent can still cause altitude sickness, so it's essential to take acclimatization seriously and to avoid alcohol and other high-altitude hazards. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

 Today Trek involves a trek from Ghasa to Tatopani. Tatopani is a small settlement located in the lower part of the Kali Gandaki Valley and is a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek from Ghasa to Tatopani takes approximately 5-6 hours and involves a steep descent through the alpine terrain of the region. Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding peaks, as well as the Kali Gandaki River, which runs through the deep valley below. The trail descends steeply to Rukse Chhahara (Rukse Waterfalls). The deepest gorge of the world is situated between the two mountains Annapurna I (8091m) and Dhaulagiri I (8167m) which face each other near Rukse waterfalls. 

Tatopani is a small settlement known for its hot springs, which are considered to have therapeutic properties. The settlement is home to several guesthouses and lodges, as well as several shops and restaurants where trekkers can rest and replenish their supplies.

After several days of trekking in the higher elevations, the descent to Tatopani provides a welcome opportunity to acclimate to lower altitudes and to relax in the hot springs. However, it's important to remember that even a gentle descent can still cause altitude sickness, so it's essential to take acclimatization seriously and to avoid alcohol and other high-altitude hazards. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Day 16 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a rest day at Tatopani, a small settlement known for its hot springs. The hot springs are considered to have therapeutic properties and are a popular destination for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.

Spending a day at Tatopani is a great opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after several days of trekking in the high elevations of the Himalayas. The hot springs offer a warm and relaxing environment, and are a great way to soothe tired muscles and unwind after a long day on the trail.

In addition to the hot springs, Tatopani is also a great place to explore the local culture and hospitality of the region. The settlement is home to several shops, restaurants, and guesthouses, and trekkers can spend time chatting with the friendly locals and learning about their way of life.

It's important to remember to take acclimatization seriously, even on rest days. Avoid alcohol and other high-altitude hazards, and if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea, it's important to stop and rest, or to descend to a lower altitude if necessary.

Today Trek involves a trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani. Ghorepani is a small settlement located in the heart of the Annapurna region and is a popular stop for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit.

The trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani takes approximately 7-8 hours and involves a steady ascent through the alpine terrain of the region. The trail winds through dense forests of rhododendron and bamboo, providing a scenic and diverse landscape for trekkers to enjoy.

Along the way, trekkers will have the opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail). As you near Ghorepani, the trail opens up to reveal panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the surrounding peaks.

Ghorepani is a small settlement known for its scenic location and its vibrant hospitality. The settlement is home to several guesthouses and lodges, as well as several shops and restaurants where trekkers can rest and replenish their supplies.

Day 18 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek involves a trek from Ghorepani to Tikhedhunga. The trek is known for its beautiful scenery, including a sunrise view from Poon Hill, a popular viewpoint located on the edge of the Annapurna region.

The trek from Ghorepani to Tikhedhunga takes approximately 6-7 hours and involves a steady descent through the lush landscape of the region. The trail passes through terraced fields and small villages, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life in the region.

Poon Hill is one of the highlights of the trek, and is a popular destination for trekkers looking for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail). The best time to visit Poon Hill is in the early morning, when the sun rises over the peaks and the sky is painted with brilliant colors.

After visiting Poon Hill, the trail continues through dense forests and along rushing streams, eventually arriving at Tikhedhunga. Tikhedhunga is a small settlement located near the confluence of two rivers and is known for its scenic location and hospitable locals.

Day 19 of the Annapurna Circuit Trek involves a trek from Tikhedhunga to Pokhara via Nayapul. The trek is the final leg of the journey and is a relatively short and easy descent through the lush landscape of the region.

The trek from Tikhedhunga to Pokhara takes approximately 4-5 hours and involves a steady descent through terraced fields and small villages, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life in the region. The trail eventually leads to Nayapul, a small town located on the banks of the Modi River.

From Nayapul, a short drive or a long walk along the river will take you to Pokhara, a bustling city located in the heart of the Annapurna region. Pokhara is a popular destination for trekkers and tourists, known for its scenic location, vibrant culture, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Pokhara is home to several restaurants, shops, and hotels, as well as several outdoor recreation opportunities, including boating on Phewa Lake, paragliding, and mountain biking. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, or to explore the city's vibrant culture and outdoor recreation opportunities, Pokhara is a great place to end your Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Today drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours and is a scenic journey through the rural countryside of Nepal.

The road from Pokhara to Kathmandu is well-maintained and travels through several small villages and towns, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life in the region. The journey also offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and peaks, including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.

Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you can spend the rest of your day exploring the city and its many attractions, including the famous temples, stupas, and palaces of the Durbar Square area, the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, and the bustling streets and markets of the city.

It's also a good idea to take some time to relax and reflect on your Annapurna Base Camp Trek, and to thank the trekking crew and porters who helped make your journey a success. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery, Nepal is a country that will stay with you long after your journey is over.

Evening farewell dinner at an authentic Nepalese restaurant with a cultural performance.

A representative from Himalayan Adventure Treks and Tours will take you to the airport, approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.