Annapurna Circuit Trek

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by your guide with a traditional Dhaka Khada before being transferred to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey or explore the lively streets of Thamel, Kathmandu’s popular tourist district filled with cafés, shops and local markets.

After breakfast, we explore key cultural sites including Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Bhaktapur.

Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in South Asia and a focal point of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Historically located along an ancient trade route to Tibet, it remains a significant pilgrimage site.

Pashupatinath is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated along the Bagmati River. The surrounding ghats are used for ritual cremations and religious ceremonies.

Bhaktapur, known as the ‘City of Devotees’, is famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture. We visit Durbar Square, the Palace of 55 Windows and the Nyatapola Temple - the tallest pagoda-style temple in the valley.

The afternoon is free to prepare for the trek.

Early this morning, we begin our journey towards the Annapurna region. The drive follows winding mountain roads through rural villages, terraced hillsides and river valleys before reaching Besisahar, where we change vehicles and continue towards Jagat. The route offers beautiful scenery with views of rivers, waterfalls and surrounding hills. Upon arrival in Jagat, there is time to relax and visit the nearby natural hot springs.

Drive time: Approximately 6-7 hours (1300m/4265ft)

After breakfast, we begin trekking along trails that follow the Marsyangdi River through forests, waterfalls and mountain villages. The route includes both ascents and descents, crossing suspension bridges and winding along dramatic cliffside paths. Along the way, we pass Chyamje with impressive views of the Annapurna mountain range.

Continuing through rocky trails and forested landscapes, we eventually reach the village of Dharapani after crossing another suspension bridge.

Trekking time: Approximately 7-8 hours (1960m/6430ft)

Today we continue trekking through pine forests and scenic mountain landscapes towards Chame, the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. Throughout the day, we enjoy impressive views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. The trail passes through traditional mountain settlements and natural hot springs where trekkers often stop to relax tired muscles. As we gain elevation, the scenery becomes increasingly alpine with dramatic mountain backdrops.

Trekking time: Approximately 5-6 hours (2710m/8891ft)

The trail today passes through dense forests before reaching one of the most dramatic sections of the Marsyangdi Valley. A steep rock face towers above the river while sections of the trail are carved directly into the mountainside. As we continue, the valley gradually opens up, revealing spectacular panoramic views. One of the highlights is the enormous Paungda Danda rock face rising dramatically above the valley floor. We continue trekking through the widening valley before arriving at Lower Pisang surrounded by magnificent Himalayan scenery.

Trekking time: Approximately 5-6 hours (3300m/10,824ft)

This morning we follow the upper trail through Geru, offering some of the best mountain views of the trek. The route provides stunning panoramas of Annapurna, Pisang Peak and surrounding Himalayan landscapes. As we gain altitude, the environment becomes noticeably drier and more rugged as we enter the rain-shadow region of Manang. Along the way, we visit Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manang district and an important spiritual centre for the local community. We eventually arrive in Manang, a traditional mountain settlement surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery.

Trekking time: Approximately 6-7 hours (3519 m/11,545ft)

Today is reserved for acclimatisation to help prepare for the higher elevations ahead. To assist with altitude adaptation, we take an excursion hike around the surrounding area. Depending on conditions and energy levels, we may hike to Bhojo Gumba, Gangapurna Lake or Ice Lake for panoramic mountain views.

There is also the option to visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraga Village to learn more about altitude sickness and mountain safety. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the unique mountain atmosphere of Manang.

After breakfast, we continue trekking north-west out of the Marsyangdi Valley. The trail gradually ascends through alpine meadows, juniper bushes and grazing pastures where yaks and horses can often be seen. Passing through small settlements and crossing wooden bridges, we continue towards Yak Kharka, a small high-altitude settlement surrounded by open mountain landscapes. The thinner air and rugged scenery make it clear we are approaching the higher Himalayan region.

Trekking time: Approximately 4-5 hours (4110m/13,484ft)

Today’s trek is shorter but important for acclimatisation before crossing Thorong La Pass. The route gradually climbs through rocky alpine terrain with increasingly dramatic mountain views. After crossing a suspension bridge and passing Ledar village, we continue beneath towering cliffs towards Thorong Phedi.

Thorong Phedi, meaning the foot of the hill, is the final settlement before the pass crossing. From here, we enjoy views of Thorong Peak, Mt. Gundang and surrounding Himalayan ranges.

Trekking time: Approximately 3-4 hours (4600m/15,092ft)

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. We begin very early in the morning to cross Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. The steady climb through high-altitude terrain is demanding, but reaching the summit is an unforgettable achievement. From the top of the pass, we enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and snow-covered landscapes.

After time for photographs and rest, we begin the long descent towards Muktinath in the Mustang region. Muktinath is one of Nepal’s most sacred pilgrimage sites for both Hindus and Buddhists, set against the dramatic backdrop of the arid Mustang landscape.

Trekking time: Approximately 4 hours to Thorong La Pass (5416m/17764ft) and 5 hours to Muktinath (3800m/12,467ft)

After breakfast, we drive through the Mustang region to Jomsom before boarding a scenic mountain flight to Pokhara. The short flight offers spectacular aerial views of deep valleys, snow-capped peaks and the dramatic landscapes of the Annapurna region. Upon arrival in Pokhara, transfer to your hotel.

Later, we enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Phewa Lake and time to stroll along the lakeside area filled with cafés, restaurants and local shops.

Drive time: Approximately 2 hours
Flight time: Approximately 20 minutes

We leave Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu through scenic countryside, rivers and hillside villages. Upon arrival, the remainder of the day is free for relaxation or last-minute souvenir shopping in Thamel.

Drive time: Approximately 5-6 hours

You will be transferred to the airport approximately 3 hours before your international flight. Depart Nepal with unforgettable memories of Himalayan landscapes, mountain cultures, sacred monasteries and the incredible adventure across the Annapurna Circuit.