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Annapurna Circuit Trek

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit is a popular and highly regarded trekking destination in Nepal that circles the Annapurna Massif. It is known for its stunning mountain views and cultural attractions and is considered one of the best trekking routes in the world. The Annapurna Circuit trek allows you to enjoy views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges from several vantage points. The trek takes about 12-20 days to complete, depending on your pace and the route you take. The trek typically starts from Besisahar or Bhulbhule and follows the Marsyangdi River through the valley, passing through several small villages and along terraced rice fields. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see a wide variety of landscapes, from subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts. One of the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit is the Thorong La pass, which at an altitude of 5,416 meters is the highest point on the trek.

From the top of the pass, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. Other highlights of the Annapurna Circuit include visiting the holy Hindu temple of Muktinath, exploring the traditional villages, and experiencing the local culture and hospitality of the people of Nepal.

Our 20-day itinerary below follows the old traditional classic route of the Annapurna Circuit from day to day traversing various landscapes and Himalayan backgrounds as well as multiple ethnic groups. After making a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule our trek starts from here the trekking follows the Marsyangdi River up to Manang then goes higher up to the Thorong La Pass at 5416 meters, afterward bring down into Muktinath temple (3800 meters).


After Muktinath, you need to descend to the melodramatic valley of Kali Gandaki, on this day see an eyeful landscape view of the Mustang. Kali Gandaki has the deepest gorge on earth. After a few days of easy trekking in the Kali Gandaki valley then reach Tatopani (the place for natural hot spring). Bathing in a natural hot spring People believes that taking a dip in a hot spring cures your skin ailments and reduces stress due to the minerals it contains.


From Tatopani, after a few minutes walk, you have to cross the river to climb Ghorepani (2855 m). Today is the longest and steepest climb of the entire route, but after reaching Ghorepani you feel that you are in heaven. Early next morning you need to hike up to Poon Hill (3210 m), it is one of the best places on earth to enjoy the natural beauty. From Poon Hill, you can see the snow-capped mountains of the majestic Himalayan ranges with a beautiful sunrise.

After enjoying the views from Poon Hill you need to return to Ghorepani to continue the trek to Tadapani and Ghandruk. It is also possible to go from Ghorepani to Pokhara in a single day if you do not want to do the long trek via Ghandruk. If you follow the path to Ghandruk it is long but takes you closer to the beautiful mountains. Easy walk from Ghandruk to Birethanti/Nayapul where the trek ends. From here we hire a taxi or private vehicle to take you to Pokhara. From Pokhara, you will return to Kathmandu by tourist bus or flight depending on the service you choose.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation
Day 03: Drive to Beshi Sahar (820 m) then Bhulbhule (840 m)
Day 04: Trek to Jagat (1330 m)
Day 05: Trek to Dharapani (1960 m)
Day 06: Trek to Chame (2670 m)
Day 07: Trek to Pisang (3200 m)
Day 08: Trek to Manang (3540 m)
Day 09: Acclimatization in Manang (3540 m)
Day 10: Trek to Yak Kharka (4110 m)
Day 11: Trek to Thorung Phedi (4420 m)
Day 12: Trek to Muktinath (3800 m) Over the Thorong La Pass (5416 m)
Day 13: Trek to Marpha (2680 m)
Day 14: Trek to Ghasa (2010 m)
Day 15: Trek to Tatopani (1190 m)
Day 16: Trek to Ghorepani (2855 m)
Day 17: Visit Poon Hill (3210 m) trek to Tadapani (2610 m)
Day 18: Trek to Ghandruk then drive to Pokhara (850 m)
Day 19: Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus
Day 20: Depart Kathmandu.

Note: If you are not interested in walking the motor road section then you can reduce the days of trekking by taking a local bus from Jomsom to Tatopani. However, instead of reducing the days of trekking, the trekking can be extended from Ghandruk.


Destination: Nepal
Trekking Region: Annapurna
Trek Start Point:  Bhulbhule
Trek End Point: Nayapul
Trekking Accommodation:  Teahouse / Camping
Trekking Grade: Medium-hard
Best Season:  March - June / September-November
Max Elevation: 5416m
Duration: 20 Days

The price of the trip depends on the size of the group and the level of service in the cities where you are going to use the accommodation (deluxe, standard, and budget) and the entire trekking can be done with either a normal teahouse or the best available teahouse Or camping (fully tented camp). Better to tell us what you're looking for? Please Click here to request a price.

PRICE INCLUDES:-

  • Airport pick up and airport drop by private transportation including before and after the trek
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (2 and above participants get twin sharing room in 3-star standard hotel)
  • Historical monument city sightseeing with a tour guide
  • Historical monuments city sightseeing transportation by Non A/C Comfortable Vehicle
  • Kathmandu sightseeing/monument visits Entrance fees
  • Accommodation in Pokhara as per the itinerary with complimentary breakfast (2 and above participants get twin sharing room in a tourist standard hotel)
  • Kathmandu to Bhulbhule transportation by Public bus
  • Pokhara to Kathmandu transportation by tourist bus
  • Trekking accommodation in normal Trekkers lodge/Teahouse (2 and above participants get twin sharing room)
  • Three time meals a day during the trekking Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner/Main course
  • Dessert (Fresh Fruits/Chocolate) after dinner on behalf of the company
  • One Experienced English-speaking, government licensed and ministry of tourism trained trekking guide and his food, accommodation, and salary.
  • Porters carrying your luggage while trekking (Two guests get one porter carrying a maximum of 25 kg of luggage)
  • Ghandruk to Pokhara transportation by private vehicle
  • Annapurna Conservation area project entry fee
  • Trekker's Information Management system (TIMS) card
  • Insurance for Nepalese staff (Trekking guide and Porters)
  • Nepal Government taxes and office service charge

PRICE EXCLUDES:-

  • Lunch and Dinner during the stay in Kathmandu
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • International and domestic air tickets
  • Nepal visa fee
  • Personal trekking equipment and Clothing
  • Wire Transfer charge or Credit card service charge as company rule
  • Alcoholic beverages, laundry, Telephone calls and all types of hot drinks in Trekking
  • Soft drinks such as cola, mineral water etc
  • Hot water, battery charge and hot shower charge during the trek (If need to pay)
  • Personal nature expenses and Tipping (Tips)
  • High risk medical / travel insurance and First aid kit
  • Expenses resulting from delays beyond our control in case of weather, flight cancellations, or natural calamities
  • Emergency rescue evacuation (if needed)
  • Any other things not mentioned

Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu airport
Once you reach at Kathmandu airport, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. A short travel briefing will be given at the hotel/office, and you will be requested to pay the travel dues. Overnight at Hotel

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek Preparation
After breakfast, Kathmandu visits Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa which are all World Heritage Sites. Durbar Square throws light on the life of the royals in ancient times. Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage places for all Hindus. Swayambhunath is also known as Monkey Temple and Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest stupas in the world. Late in the afternoon, we introduced you to your mountain/trek guide. overnight at Hotel

Day 03: Kathmandu drive to Besi Sahar (820m) then Bhulbhule (840m) 
Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule via Besisahar. It takes about seven to eight hours to reach the Bhulbhule by bus. We have daily public bus service to Bhulbhule from Kathmandu new bus park (Gongbu Bus Park). So our guide will come to your hotel to pick you up to take you bus park if you wish to use public bus but if you are choosing the private vehicle then private vehicle and trekking crews come in your hotel for overland journey to Bhulbhule. After long beautiful drive you will reach at Bhulbhule (840m). Overnight at teahouse.

Day 04: Bhulbhule trek to Jagat (1330m) 
Today, we cross the Marshyangdi River and continue along its right fork. We soon pass some tropical trees and terraced fields. Soon we glimpse of first sights of one of the 8000 peaks, Mount Manaslu (8161m), as well as Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli. From Ngadi, our path climbs steadily to Bhaudanda-a small Hindu village (1300m) with shops and tea houses. From Bhaundanda our trail abruptly dips to Syange (1080m). We'll cross the Marsyangdi River on a suspension bridge and continue trek along the peaceful river and climb to the stone village of Jagat (1330).  Overnight at teahouse.

Day 05: Jagat trek to Dharapani (1960m)
From Jagat our trail descends, crossing Ghatte Khola Stream and climbs again through forest-finally reaching Chamje (1410m). From Chamje our path crosses to the east fork of Marsyangdi River. Soon we climb steep stone steps past the village of Sattale (1680m), past fields and rhododendrons along the river bank and later climb to the open plateau of Tal (1700m). We continue gradually uphill, passing the villages of Khorte and Karte to finally you are reaching at Dharapani (1960m).  Overnight at teahouse.

Day 06:  Dharapani to Chame (2670m.)
Today, we pass a village school and also you can see the way of coming down from Larkya Pass (Manaslu trekking) and continue climb gradually through a forest to the typical Tibetan-style village of Bagarchhap (2160). Remaining along the left bank of the river, we gradually climb to Danaque (2210m). After Danaque cross suspension bridge and climb up to Temang village (2600m) and continue trek koto (2640m). It is the gate way for Nar Phu valley trekking. After koto easy walk to Chame (2670m) the largest village and headquarters of Manang District.  Overnight at teahouse.

Day 07: Chame trek to Pisang (3200m.)
Today, trek west from the bridge but if you wish to see the small hot spring you can walk 2 minutes east side of bridge after cross the bridge in Marsyangdi River at Chame but sometime it will be closed by overflow by Marsyangdi River water. After you follow west trail from the bridge now continues trek along the river banks through Telekhu (2840m) to Bharatang which is surrounded by apple orchards. Continue on the trail for about 30 minutes taking you through the banks of the Marshyangdi River, cross the bridge and proceed with the gradual ascent about 30 minutes to reach at Dhukure Pokhari (3200m). The trail now gradually turns planar and you would reach Pisang in about an hour. Pisang offers magnificent views of the Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. Overnight at teahouse

Day 08: Pisang trek to Manang (3540m.) 
Trek from Pisang to Manang (3440m.) and it takes about five and half hours. Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge which affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7134m.). Descending past Manang's airstrip at Hongde (3420m), you come to a level area from where the north-east 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 Marsyangdi Khola via a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. Cultivated fields appear on both sides of the path and off to the right, below a craggy mountain, you can see the village of Bryaga (3500m) with its splendid monastery. Large chortens and mani walls abound and the tall peaks of the Himalaya spread out before us - Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna (7454m) and, to the rear, Tilicho Peak (7134m). Overnight at teahouse

Day 09: Acclimatization in Manang (3540m.)
Today is our like a rest day to acclimatization for trekking in higher elevation so you can make short visit to Gangapurna Lake, monastery and Manang village but if you wish to make day hiking trip such as visiting Milarepa cave, Ice Lake you need to extend your rest day in Manang because Ice Lake it is hard full day trip from Manang and also Milarepa cave not suggest in one day rest in Manang because you need some rest at Manang for acclimatization. Overnight at teahouse

Day 10: Manang trek to Yak Kharka (4110m) 
The trekking trail now begins an ascent above 1876m to Thorung La from Manang village. From Manang village the trail crosses a stream before climbing to Tengi (3650m). We then continue to climb the Marsyangdi valley, passing the small village of Gunsang (3960m). After crossing a large stream that flows from Chulu west and Gundang, the trail passes an ancient Mani wall in a pleasant meadow at 4000 m. Beyond here is Yak Kharka, (4110m) also known as Koche.  Overnight at teahouse

Day 11: Yak Kharka trek to Thorong Phedi (4420m)
After less than one hour walking you are reaching  at Chauri Ledar (4250m). From Ledar the trail continues to climb along the east bank of the Jorsang Khola, then descends and crosses the stream on a wooden bridge at 4310 metres. After making a short ascent on a good trail to a teashop, the route then follows a narrow path across a high, unstable slope path before reach at Thorong Phedi (4420m). Overnight at teahouse

Day 12: Thorung Phedi trek to Muktinath (3800m) Over the Thorong La Pass (5416m)
The set off is exceptionally early in the morning to go across Thorong La Pass at 5416m. The trail becomes steep instantly after leaving Phedi but easy to follow. 4-6 hours ascent leads to the top of the Pass, which is complete with prayer flags, a chorten and stone cairn built by trekkers. At the top of Thorong La there is one tea shop but only running in trekking season time where you will have hot tea / coffee in your small rest at top. The views from the trail and from the pass are majestic. You will see Thorung peak, Annapurnas, Gangapurna, Khatung Kang and Kali Gandaki valley etc. After Thorong La top the trail descends steeply proceeding towards Chabarbu (4290m), available tiny seasonable teahouse. From here on, the trail crosses meadows, drops into a deep gorge, climbs out and follows a wide trail into Muktinath, a pilgrimage site held in great reverence by both the Hindus and Buddhists. Overnight at teahouse

Day 13:  Muktinath trek to Marpha (2680m) 
Today, trek is begin with the descent down hill to dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet. After passing through Jharkot (3500m) and Khingar (3280m), villages with typical Tibetan architecture, you follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom through Ekle Bhatti (2740m) which is sprawled along both banks of the Kali Gandaki .From here there are fine views of the Nilgiri peaks. You continue down to Marpha (2680m), a delightful Thakali village, complete with a drainage system beneath the flagstone streets. Its narrow alleys and passageways provide welcome shelter from the strong winds of the Kali Gandaki Gorge and Marpha is particularly well known for its apples, apple cider and apple, apricot and peach rakshi (wine) overnight at teahouse

Day 14:  Marpha trek to Ghasa (2010m)
The trekking trail descends steeply through forests to Ghasa, the last Thakali village and the southern-most limit of Tibetan Buddhism. The beginning part of the trail is stretched at almost flat level up to Kalopani and then your trail begins descending steeply to Ghasa. The first part of the trek passes through the windy area covered with pine forests, rhododendron forests and birches are seen. The surrounding area of Ghasa is famous destination for bird watching. Here you are quite amazed at the panoramic view of Mount Nilgiri North (7061m.), Nilgiri Central (6940m.), and Nilgiri South (6839m.), Annapurna I (8091m.), Dhaulagiri I (8167m.) and Tukuche peak (6920m.) overnight at teahouse

Day 15:  Ghasa trek to Tatopani (1190m)
The trekking trail descends steeply up to Rupse Chhahara (Rupse Waterfall) which is amazing to look and enjoying with beauty. There is situated the deepest gorge of the world between two mountains Annapurna I (8091m.) and Dhaulagiri I (8167m.) facing each other near Rupse Waterfall. Now the trail ascends slightly to Tatopani (1190m) through different human settlements. You can enjoy the hot spring at Tatopani as the word Tatopani is termed after the natural hot spring situated at the bank of the Kali Gandaki River. It is popularly believed that taking bath in Hot Spring helps you to get rid of skin diseases. Overnight at teahouse.

Day 16:  Tatopani trek to Ghorepani (2855m)
The trekking trail passes through flat level of the land at some distance. Then the trail begins ascending steeply for at least one hour. Now path goes up through different villages inhabited by the people of different caste and agricultural land.  While on trekking you will see the best panoramic view of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The trail ascends gently all the way to Ghorepani passing through small villages like Ghara (1780m), Shikha (1950m), Phalate (2390m), Chitre (2420m) and so on. While trekking you pass through rhododendron forests and come across the wildlife such as monkeys and birds of various species. You are accompanied by more panoramic views of different mountains. Ghorepani (Watering to Horse) are a small pass known as Ghorepani Deurali (2855m) so more tourists stay here than down hill situated Ghorepani for better views. Overnight at teahouse.

Day 17: Visit Poon Hill (3210m) trek to Tadapani (2610m) 
Early morning ascend to Poon Hill (3210m.) to enjoy the sunrise view over Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Bahra Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhre (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), Lamjung Himal (6931m.) and other numerous snowcapped mountain peaks.  After enjoying the view in Poon Hill then descends Ghorepani.  After breakfast we make climb along ridges and through pine and rhododendron forests to Deurali (2960m) and after Deurali we descend to the Banthanti and continue descend till small river bank then after climb up to Tadapani (2610m) En- route, you frequently see waterfalls, rocks, wild animals, local birds and green scenarios. Tadapani is a small village surrounded by beautiful forests which grants you a magnificent view of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Fishtail, and so on. Overnight at teahouse

Day 18: Tadapani trek to Ghandruk then drive to Pokhara (850m)
From Tadapani, we make a steep descent through the dense and dark forest. This part of the trek will be through a thick forest of old rhododendron trees. When the rhododendron trees are in bloom, these forests actually turn into amazing gardens. By afternoon, depending upon the season of travel, we also get to enjoy cherry blossoms in bloom on the slopes on the other side of the ravine. After trekking a few more minutes, we enter the village of Ghandruk, a slope settlement with stone houses mostly inhabited by the Gurung people. Here, we enjoy the stunningly close-up towering views of Fishtail, Annapurna South, and Hiunchuli mountains. From Ghandruk we drive to Pokhara. Overnight at Hotel

Day 19: Drive to Kathmandu by tourist bus
It takes about seven hours, while driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu, you head up to Damauli,, Dumre, Muglin and Kurintar where the Nepal's first Cable car is operated to reach to Manakamana Temple. En route, you could enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. From Naubishe you climb up to Thankot, the gateway to capital city. You can also fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu which takes about 25 minutes. Overnight Hotel

Day 21: Depart Kathmandu
After breakfast, End of our services with departure transfer to the Kathmandu airport to board flight for your onward destination

If you don't want to include the Kathmandu part in the itinerary, join our fixed departure group trek and trek with other tourists or you can join a private tour and depart on your own date. Click here for more information.

If above trip itinerary that doesn't suit to your holiday schedule or you wish to modify the itinerary or combines with any travel plans, then please let us know and we'll be happy to create a tailor made itinerary, designed and departure the trip any date that suitable to your holiday schedule especially for you. Please click here for tailor made trip form.

 

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