Spectacular Annapurna Circuit Trek

The day begins early with breakfast in Kathmandu, followed by a scenic drive into the foothills of the Himalayas. The journey to Besisahar takes around 6–7 hours and covers approximately 175 km, passing through river valleys, terraced farmland, and small rural settlements. As the road winds through the hills, you’ll get your first impressions of local life and Nepal’s diverse landscapes.

From Besisahar, the drive continues deeper into the mountains toward Chame, taking an additional 3–4 hours. This section alternates between paved roads and rough mountain tracks, gradually revealing dramatic Himalayan scenery. Along the way, you may spot waterfalls, forested slopes, and traditional villages influenced by Tibetan culture, with stone houses, apple orchards, and cultivated fields lining the route. Snow-capped peaks from the Annapurna and Lamjung ranges begin to dominate the horizon.

By late afternoon or early evening, you arrive in Chame, a peaceful mountain village and the administrative center of the region. After settling into your lodge, there is time to relax, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and take in the surrounding views. This first night in the mountains allows you to rest and prepare for the trekking days ahead.

Altitude: 2,650 m / 8,694 ft

Overnight: Chame

Leaving Chame in the morning, you begin your first full day of trekking as the trail follows the Marsyangdi River into a narrowing mountain valley. The walk starts gently, passing through pine and rhododendron forest, before the terrain gradually becomes steeper. Within the first few hours, the landscape begins to feel more alpine, offering a true introduction to high-mountain trekking.

After approximately 4–5 hours on the trail, you cross a suspension bridge near Dukur Pokhari at around 3,040 meters. From this point, the scenery changes noticeably: forests thin out, the valley widens, and expansive mountain views open up. The striking Paungda Danda rock face rises dramatically above the river, while snow-capped peaks start to dominate the horizon.

The final section of the trek leads past yak pastures and traditional stone settlements as you make your way toward Upper Pisang. Reaching the village in the afternoon, you are rewarded with panoramic views of Annapurna II, Annapurna IV, and Lamjung Himal. Set high above the valley, Upper Pisang is an ideal place to rest, explore the village, and enjoy your first sweeping Himalayan vistas. Overnight at a local lodge.

Altitude: 3,250 m / 10,662 ft

Overnight: Upper Pisang

Starting early from Pisang, you begin the trek toward the high-altitude town of Manang. Over the course of approximately 5–6 hours, the trail gradually gains elevation, rising from 3,250 meters (10,662 ft) in Pisang to 3,540 meters (11,614 ft) in Manang. The path passes through rocky ridges, terraced fields, and occasional yak pastures, offering steadily changing mountain scenery.

Along the way, you walk through the traditional villages of Ghyaru and Braga, each providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Braga is notable for its ancient monastery and charming stone houses, giving you a glimpse of local culture as you rest or explore briefly. The terrain alternates between gentle uphill slopes, stone steps, and narrower mountain trails, making the trek moderately challenging but highly rewarding.

As you approach Manang, the environment shifts to alpine terrain and open hillsides. Distant glaciers and ice lakes add to the sense of altitude and grandeur. Arriving in the afternoon, you settle into a local lodge, take time to relax, and begin acclimatizing in preparation for the higher passes ahead.

Altitude: 3,540 meters / 11,614 ft

Overnight: Manang

Today is an important acclimatization day in Manang, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude before crossing Thorong La Pass. The morning can be spent on short hikes to nearby viewpoints or lakes, which provide both acclimatization benefits and some of the most impressive Himalayan scenery.

One popular option is a trek to Chongkor Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Gangapurna Lake, the Gangapurna Glacier, and surrounding peaks such as Annapurna IV, Tilicho Peak, Pisang Peak, Chulu Peak, and Thorong Peak. The river flowing below adds extra drama to the landscape.

For a more challenging day, you can hike to Ice Lake, situated about 1,000 meters above Brakha. This round-trip trek takes roughly 8 hours and helps your body adapt to higher altitude while offering opportunities to spot Himalayan wildlife. On clear days, the lake reflects Annapurna III, creating a breathtaking scene.

Those preferring a lighter option can take a walk to Braga Village, visit the Himalayan Rescue Association, and explore local culture. In the afternoon, everyone returns to Manang to rest, enjoy a warm meal, and prepare for the next stage of the trek.

Possible Altitude: Ice Lake (4,540 m / 14,895 ft)

Overnight: Manang

Today’s journey takes you upward from Manang to Yak Kharka, reaching 4,018 meters (13,179 ft) over a moderately challenging route. The route gradually ascends over approximately 5 hours, allowing your body to adjust steadily to higher altitude. The trail features a mix of rocky paths, alpine meadows, and gentle river crossings, making this section moderately challenging.

Along the way, you pass through Tenki Village and cross Jarsang Khola, observing traditional stone houses, prayer flags, and terraced fields. Higher up, yak pastures appear, giving the village its name, while the landscape opens to expansive views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and Chulu West.

The journey offers peaceful alpine valleys and crisp mountain air. Arriving in Yak Kharka, a small settlement of stone houses, you have time to rest, enjoy a warm meal, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks before overnighting at a tea house.

Altitude: 4,018 m / 13,179 ft

Overnight: Yak Kharka

The trek begins from Yak Kharka at 4,018 meters, gradually ascending toward Thorong High Camp at 4,880 meters (16,010 ft). Over approximately 5 hours, the trail winds through alpine meadows and rocky ridges, offering a moderately strenuous route while allowing trekkers to acclimatize.

Along the way, you pass Ledar, a small settlement with traditional stone houses and yak pastures. The surrounding peaks—including Gangapurna, Annapurna III, Thorong Peak, and Khatung Kang—dominate the skyline, and the crisp mountain air adds to the serenity of this high Himalayan landscape.

The path alternates between rocky trails, gentle slopes, and open ridges, providing both a physical challenge and spectacular scenery. Upon arrival at High Camp, you are rewarded with panoramic sunset views over the Annapurna range. The camp consists of a few lodges offering warm tea, hearty meals, and a comfortable place to rest before tackling Thorong La Pass the next day.

Altitude: 4,880 m / 16,010 ft

Overnight: High Camp

The day begins very early, around 4:30–5:00 AM, to make the most of firmer snow and stable morning weather for the ascent to Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 ft). The climb starts from High Camp at 4,880 meters, winding along rocky paths and snow-covered slopes. Trekkers typically take 4–5 hours to reach the summit, pausing for short breaks to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the dramatic high-altitude scenery. Along the way, glacial streams, icy cliffs, and rugged landscapes provide breathtaking views.

From the summit, a full 360° panorama opens up, with Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, and Thorong Peak dominating the horizon. This is a perfect moment to take photos, celebrate, and rest before starting the descent.

The descent to Muktinath at 3,800 meters takes approximately 2–3 hours. The trail is gentler but requires careful footing. Muktinath is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, featuring the Vishnu Temple and the 108-cow-head water taps. Trekkers can explore the temple, observe local rituals, and enjoy lunch at a nearby tea house.

After a short rest, the journey continues down the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Jomsom at 2,743 meters. Covering about 12 km over 2–3 hours, the path passes picturesque villages such as Marpha and Lupra, terraced fields, and the edges of the world’s deepest gorge. Arriving in Jomsom in the afternoon, trekkers check into a lodge to rest and reflect on one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the journey.

Altitude: Thorong La Pass (5,416 m / 17,769 ft)

Overnight: Jomsom

After completing the high-altitude journey and spending time in Jomsom, the day begins with a scenic drive or short flight to Pokhara. The road typically takes around 6–7 hours, following the rivers and valleys below, with cliffs, waterfalls, and terraced fields providing striking views along the way.

As you descend from the arid landscapes of Mustang, the scenery gradually changes to lush greenery and the serene lakeside surroundings of Pokhara. This journey offers a relaxing and reflective experience after the challenging mountain days, allowing time to appreciate the peaks you’ve crossed.

Upon arrival in Pokhara, you check into your hotel for an overnight stay. The afternoon and evening can be spent resting or enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the city. If time permits, there are opportunities to visit Phewa Lake, explore local markets, or see cultural sites nearby.

Overnight: Pokhara

The final day begins with a drive from Pokhara back to Kathmandu, which typically takes around 6–7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

The route offers varied and scenic landscapes, passing through lush valleys, rivers, terraced farmland, and small villages. This journey provides a last opportunity to enjoy Nepal’s natural beauty, with occasional views of the Trishuli River, known for rafting and adventure activities.

Arriving in Kathmandu in the afternoon, you are transferred to your hotel. There is time to rest, freshen up, or explore the city’s cultural highlights, including Thamel, Durbar Square, or the local markets, before your onward journey.

Overnight: Kathmandu

A representative will accompany you to the airport about 3 hours before your scheduled departure. If you prefer to extend your stay, there are a variety of optional tours available, allowing you to explore more of Nepal according to your interests.