Introduction to Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trekking route in Nepal, following a diverse trail from the Marsyangdi Valley across Thorong La Pass and into the Kali Gandaki Valley. Our 18-day itinerary continues beyond Muktinath to Tatopani, Ghorepani, Poon Hill, and Ghandruk before ending in Pokhara.
Our journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Jagat (1,300 m) via Besisahar. The journey can be arranged by private jeep directly to Jagat or by bus to Besisahar followed by a local jeep, depending on your travel preferences. From Jagat, we follow the Marsyangdi Valley toward Chamje and Tal, crossing suspension bridges and passing waterfalls, terraced hillsides, and small settlements. The trail continues through Dharapani, Bagarchhap, Danaque, and Timang to Chame (2,670 m), where the landscape gradually changes from forested hills to a more rugged mountain setting.
Road access has changed parts of the lower Annapurna Circuit. Some sections of the original trail now share the road, while other sections remain suitable for trekking. We use the available trekking trails wherever practical, although some road walking is unavoidable on parts of the route.
From Chame, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River through pine and fir forests toward Bratang and Dhukur Pokhari before reaching Upper Pisang (3,300 m). We then take the higher route through Ghyaru and Ngawal before descending toward Manang. The landscape becomes drier and more open, with stone houses, Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, chortens, and prayer flags reflecting the culture of the upper Marsyangdi Valley.
We spend an acclimatization day in Manang (3,540 m) before continuing toward Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi. The rest day provides time to explore Manang and take a suitable acclimatization hike. Praken Gompa and Gangapurna Lake are shorter options, while a longer hike to Ice Lake can be arranged with your guide according to weather, trail conditions, and fitness.
From Thorong Phedi, we make an early start for the climb to Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. After crossing the pass, we descend through the dry mountain landscape to Muktinath (3,800 m), an important pilgrimage destination for Hindu and Buddhist communities.
From Muktinath, we continue by road through the Kali Gandaki Valley toward Tatopani (1,190 m). The journey passes through the changing landscapes of Mustang and follows the Kali Gandaki between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. At Tatopani, you can relax in the natural hot springs before continuing on foot.
The route then climbs through forests, terraced farmland, and hillside villages toward Ghorepani (2,855 m). An early morning hike to Poon Hill (3,210 m) offers views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. After returning to Ghorepani, we continue through rhododendron forest to Tadapani and descend to Ghandruk, a traditional Gurung village.
The final section passes through Landruk, Tolka, Deurali, and Pothana before reaching Dhampus Phedi. From there, a short drive takes us to Pokhara (820 m), where the trek ends.
The 18-day Annapurna Circuit Trek is suitable for trekkers who want to experience the classic circuit while also exploring the lower Annapurna hills. In addition to crossing Thorong La and visiting Muktinath, this itinerary includes Tatopani, Poon Hill, and Ghandruk before finishing in Pokhara. The route combines high-altitude trekking, mountain communities, cultural sites, and changing landscapes in one extended journey.
Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Follow the classic Annapurna Circuit route through the Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki valleys
- Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416 m), the highest point of the trek
- Explore Manang (3,540 m) and its surrounding mountain villages
- Visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath (3,800 m)
- ravel through the contrasting landscapes of Mustang and the Kali Gandaki Valley
- Relax in the natural hot springs at Tatopani
- Enjoy sunrise and mountain views from Poon Hill (3,210 m)
- Experience Gurung culture and village life in Ghandruk
- Trek through rhododendron, pine, and alpine landscapes
- Finish the extended circuit route in Pokhara after passing through Dhampus Phedi
