Group Size
+2 People above
Trip Grade
Moderate
Best Season
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October & November
Accommodation
Hotel/Lodge
Max Elevation
5416m, Thorang La Pass
Meals
Full Board
Transportation
Private Vehicle/Car/Jeep/Flight
Trip Route: Kathmandu - Jagat - Chame - Manang - Thorong La - Muktinath - Jomsom - Tatopani - Ghorepani PoonHill- Gandruk - Nayapul - Pokhara
Trip Overview
- One of the most scenic and cultural treks in the Himalayas of Nepal.
- Encountering Himalayan wildlife and flowers during your trek
- Experiencing a mountain lifestyle and culture closely
- Panoramic view of high hills and snow-capped mountains
- Site visit and rest at the ancient Himalayan kingdom of Manang and Mustang
- Holy Muktinath temple visit, ideal for the Hindu and Buddhist culture and tradition viewing
- Himalayan sunrise over the peak with organic tea
- Thorang La pass, Highest pass in Nepal and fourth highest in the world
- Walking alongside the world,s deepest gorge made by the Kali Gandaki river
- Taste of Himalayan cuisine and dairy products of Yaks and Chauri
- Organic apple farms and apple products like chips and wine in multiple locations in the trail.
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a pristine trail centering the mighty Annapurna mountain range and going through many passes including the highest of Nepal- Thorang la Pass.
The Annapurna circuit trek as of today is one of the well-rounded and decorated trek routes in Nepal gifted with some of the most beautiful landscape on Earth. The trail has been unchanged from a long time which makes this classic trekking route more Annapurna Circuit Trek special than others. From different small and big villages, you will enter Nature in its purest form in the Annapurna Circuit Trek. With the ancient kingdom of Manang and Mustang within your reach, imagination doesn't bear fruits sweeter than this. With a terrain so different and unique, you will experience all of these in a brief span. The trek itself is not so extreme so amateurs and beginners can take on this adventurous journey too.
Besides the Marshyangdi River and through the rhododendron hills you will discover the Himalayas and its treasures. The luxury and satisfaction of completing this majestic journey is subtle as you can soak the beauty and natural scenery to your hearts fill. Each step you take will awaken a different heavenly surprise in the rocky hills or the grassy plains here. Pot your prayers in various monasteries and Stupas in the way leading you to the ultimate Hindu and Buddhist shrine of Muktinath. The fresh breeze and vibrant prayer flags will spread the positive vibe throughout your trek. Our team thought that any trekking service would be incomplete without the choice of Annapurna full circuit trek. We have done the trek ourselves and selected the best services and trail options for you needless to say with guides who have done it dozens of times before.
The Annapurna circuit trek is compatible with individual travelers too, so a solo expedition is also an option. People who love luxury mountain experience with treks are prone to choose this circuit before any other. One of the best trekking experiences in whole Asia, Annapurna circuit trek experience is best from March to May and from Mid-September to late October. Providing the memories worth your money, Himalayan Pic Du Midi present you the best trekking services of the Annapurna circuit trek.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at TIA, Kathmandu & Transfer to Hotel
Day 02: Kathmandu Heritage Tour and Prepration for the Trek
Day 03: Drive to Jagat (1300m)
Day 04: Jagat to Dharapani(1860m)
Day 05: Dharapani to Chame (2670m)
Day 06: Chame to Upper Pisang (3300m)
Day 07: Pisang to Ngawal (3660m)
Day08: Ngawal to Manang (3540m)
Day 09: Manang Acclimatization day
Day 10: Manang to Churi Ledar (4200m)
Day 11: Churi Ledar to Thorang Phedi (4450m) and to High Camp (4800m)
Day 12: High Camp - Passing through Thorong la Pass (5416m) trek to Muktinath (3760m)
Day 13: Muktinath to Jomsom (2720m)
Day 14: Jomsom to Tatopani (1190m) by 4*4
Day 15: Tatopani to Ghorepani (2860m)
Day 16: Ghorepani to Poon Hill - Tadapani(2630m)
Day 17: Tadapani to Ghandruk (1940m)
Day 18: Ghandruk to Pokhara
Day 19: Drive/Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 20: Cultural Tour of Bhaktapur
Day 21: Departure
Day to Day Itinerary
Today after your arrival at the Tribhuwan int airport in Kathmandu, our representative will attend you and transfer you to the hotel. After a brief introduction and welcoming, you will get an orientation of the trek. You can talk about the Annapurna circuit trek in detail in our office too in your spare time. In a welcome dinner organized by Himalayan Pic Du Midi, you will meet our staffs and get the information on the guides that will assist you throughout this trek. You can try some authentic Nepali staple today and get to know this nation better. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Today will be a trek preparation day for you as you will spend your spare time visiting the UNESCO heritage sites of Kathmandu. Start your day visiting the Bashantpur/ (Kathmandu) Durbar square near to your hotel. Visit the ancient monuments in the square. You can also try some snacks here. The second destination for today lies about 5 km west of Kathmandu, the Swyambhunath stupa. Visited by both Hindu and Buddhist devotees, Swyambunath is also called "The Monkey Temple". You can have an amazing view of whole Kathmandu Valley from here. In the late afternoon, head towards the major Hindu Shrine of Pashupatinath. Spend the evening in the Stupa of Boudhanath and experience the delights of Tibetan Buddhism from one of the rooftop restaurants here. Return and rest in your hotel. Overnight at Thamel, Kathmandu.
Today after a quick breakfast you will head towards the starting point of your trek, Jagat. You will start your journey from the hotels up and over the hills alongside the Trishuli River. You will come across multiple small shops in the way where you can stop and gulp in some local delicacies. From the crossing at Muglin, you will head towards the city of Besisahar. Many people start their trek from Besisahar which is about two days walk from Jagat. Besisahar is a place to get all the left out or missed gears for your trek. You will take a local Jeep ride from here to Jagat of about 3-4 hours. Similarly, You will get a first glance of the Manaslu Mountains from this ride to Jagat. Overnight at a hotel in Jagat.
You will have a slow walking day due to change in the trails moving up and down the hills. We will start our walk to Chyamje from Jagat which is seemingly flat with occasional short uphill segments. One of the picturesque mountain villages, Chyamje is a display of mountain lifestyle and stone house architecture. You can have a brief time here and also visit the nearby waterfall. On the background is the glorious Annapurna range standing tall and mighty. After a river crossing here you will have to take a steep uphill hike which may be challenging, but our guides will assist you to the top. After a quick descend you will reach the riverside grassland and Tal village. After crossing some more cliffs and forests, you will reach Dharapani. Rest and Overnight at Dharapani.
Your destination for today will be the headquarter of Manang District, Chame. As a morale booster, we will like to share that there is a hot spring here which you can enjoy to cleanse your exhaustion. Most of your trek today will be alongside ridges on hills with beautiful scenery and occasional crossing of small streams and waterfalls. You will come closer to the Annapurna II, Lamjung Himal and the Annapurna IV Mountains as you are nearing Chame. Once you reach Chame rest and head for a short village walk. Overnight at a hotel in Chame.
The village of Pisang is one of the mountain villages
untouched from modernization. A small village tour of Pisang will open you to
the mountain lifestyle and Buddhist culture from up close. As you follow a
steep and narrow path leading Pisang from Chame you can have some hard times in
this segment of the route. In some places, the trail has to be carved into
considerable rocks to make it more accessible. After reaching Dhukur Pokhari,
the path broadens with majestic full views, and it gets more comfortable for
walking too. After some hours of the trek from the Dhukur Pokhari, you will
reach the village of upper Pisang. You will be staying for the night here.
Today will be a short trek day as you will have more time to enjoy the view. You will leave the trail running from villages and walk more from the rocky hills. The natural components you will encounter today are one you can't ignore. Apart from the beautiful landscape, you will walk by small streams and occasional crossings from suspension bridges. In the afternoon of the day, you will reach the village of Ngawal. Rest and an optional hike to the nearby hill to view the sunset. Overnight at Ngawal.
The settlement of Manang lies in a flat land rising top as a valley settlement and is a picturesque place to be too. People had no access to most of these places until most recently, so it is on the verge of development. Manang is a place where you will like to extend your sitting as the people, culture, and tradition here is so friendly and pure. The trek today is short, but scene packed. The harsh climate and low visit of this trail make it perfect for adventure seekers as you will visit the Barga monastery in the way. Overnight at Manang.
As you are at an altitude of 3300 meters, it's reasonable to feel discomfort due to the height. Our guides will provide different tips and breathing exercises to prevent altitude sickness, but the best way still is Acclimatizing. As most people like to extend their stay at Manang, we have selected this day as an acclimatization break for you. You can take a rest day today and hike around the village. Some people like to keep themselves busy with short hiking trips in the surrounding villages and monasteries too. Manang is a place carrying the history of the Himalayan region of Nepal. You can find different cultural and traditional monuments and temples in Manang. The stone patched houses and settlement here is also one to be watched from near. In the late evening help yourself with the locally available dinner. Overnight at Manang.
As you leave Manang, you will continue in the trail crossing a stream and climb up to the village of Tenki. You will then head towards the northwest valley of Jarsang Khola and cross some pasture lands and juniper trees. After some walking, you will steadily start to gain elevation as you pass a small village of Ghunsa in the way. The town lies just below the trail with a cluster of adjoining mud roof houses visible from here. You will see thick small mountain vegetation from the plains starting here perfect for the grazing of Yaks and horses. Once you cross a small stream on the other side, you will find yourself beside ancient Mani walls. After passing another meadow, you will reach the small village of Yak Churi ledar. Overnight at Churi ledar.
Today you will have comparatively short trek lasting only to Thorang Phedi, the base for Thorang La Pass. Some people might want to reach the pass which is about 3 hours of the hike from here, but we should also take the elevation of more than 1300m in consideration. You can relax and enjoy the majestic view from the flatland here. The mountains strictly visible from throng Phedi is Mt. Gundang, Mt. Staging, Mt. Khatunggan, and the Thorang Peak. In the evening you can climb up to a viewpoint about 30 meters from the Phedi to view the fantastic mountain sunset. After crossing the Throrung Phedi we will push further to the High camp from here. Rest and prepare to take on the highest pass of Nepal tomorrow. Overnight at High Camp.
Today after a light breakfast you will push yourself to the highest pass of Nepal, the Thorang La Pass at 5416 meters. This pass will also be the highest point of your trail and an achievement only some people can proudly claim. Today will be a long hike as the holy shrine of Muktinath will be your final destination of today. A stone board covered with prayer flags will welcome you in the highest point of the pass. You will take some photos as your memory and start descending towards the district of Mustang from Manang. Once you are in the Muktinath valley, you can take rest and plan for the upcoming journey after conquering the Thorang La Pass.
Muktinath is one of the most significant shrines of western Nepal attended by the devotees all over the world. You can visit the shrine and mingle with the devotees performing rituals here. Here, you can also witness devotees bathing in the natural stone taps even though the temperature is very cold. We will visit the shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Hindu god) and a monastery nearby before descending to the village of Ranipauwa. The iconic settlement of Kagbeni is next where you can get any required supplies for your next segment of the trek. You will have an easy trail beside the deepest gorge in the world of Kaligandaki River. In the late afternoon you will reach Jomsom. Overnight at Jomsom.
After a quick breakfast, your journey today is a jeep travel to the village of Tatopani. After crossing the village of Ghasa, we will emerge at the lush tropical forest from where one can view a much larger variety of wildlife and vegetation. In the way, you can spend some time at the Rupse Chahara (Waterfall). From here you will continue further east towards Kopchepani. You will pass a village of Gharpar and finally cross a bridge at Dana. You will get an opportunity of exploring the powerhouse that supplies electricity in these areas at Narchyang Besi. You will pass numerous small and big villages where you can stop for snacks and watch the local village lifestyle. Tatopani, being one of the favorite places of the trek, has availability of hot springs where you can relax, replenish your energy, and look at your journey from previous days. Overnight at a hotel in Tatopani.
Today you will be heading towards a beautiful village of Ghorepani. The journey will be gradually uphill throughout the day. You will pass through red hills blooming with Rhododendron and the views of Annapurna range in the far North. You will leave the Kali Gandaki and make your way up to the Ghar Khola valley. Below you there will be an extensive terrace farming surrounded by higher mountains. In the way, you will pass the lively villages of Sikha and Chitre, and from here after a mild walk, you will reach the village of Ghorepani. Ghorepani is also an option of short treks from Pokhara so you could encounter many fellow travelers here. Rest and overnight at Ghorepani.
You will take an early morning hike of about 1 to 1.5 hours to one of the best viewpoints of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges from close. Adding to it, you can have a view of Mustang and Pokhara valley on a clear day from here. Poon hill is a place where most of the trails go off route for these breathtaking mountain sceneries. After a brief time and some wonderful memories here, you will return to Ghorepani for the morning breakfast. You will then hike to Tadapani crossing numerous springs and beautiful waterfalls in the way. The hills are greener in this part, and in a good season, you can see hills covered with rhododendron flowers. The panoramic view of the landscape from any part of the trail is sublime. You will pass through numerous villages on the way where you can stop and gulp in some local delicacies. Rest and overnight at Tadapani.
You will descend through thick forests abundant of rhododendron trees and cherry blossoms in further walking. In springtime, you will find the hills around you blooming and glazing with beautiful flowers. You will reach the village of Ghndruk in no time from here. Ghandruk is a well-managed settlement in the slope inhabited by the Gurung Community. The houses here are closely located, and the whole village is lively and welcoming. You can witness the Gurung cultural dress, ornaments and tradition in your brief time here. The view of mount fishtail and Annapurna is also breathtaking from here. Overnight at alodge in Ghandruk.
Today will be the last day of your trek, and this short stretch to from Ghandruk offer you with majestic green hills and village life experiences. You will then trek further downwards towards Nayapul and take a cab back to your hotel at Pokhara. You can spend your evening resting or watching the sunset from the Lakeside, Pokhara. Overnight at Pokhara.
After an organic honey tea and breakfast to freshen up, stroll around the streets of Pokhara and visit some of the iconic city attractions here. Either Leave early for a scenic drive to Kathmandu, or you have options to fly there too. You will head towards the Pokhara airport in the afternoon and fly towards Kathmandu. After you reach your hotel rest and go on for souvenir hunting in the streets of Thamel. You can find beautiful pictures, garments, ornaments, and handicrafts to take back as a memorandum to your home. You can also enjoy the partying Nightlife in the city by entering some pub and bars here.
After your breakfast today, we will drive to the city of Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is only about 45 minutes’ drive from your hotel. The first site of today will be the Historical Bhaktapur durbar (palace) square. The Palace was the ruling palace of Malla Kings before Kathmandu city. The golden gate temple, Palace of Fifty-five windows, and the Nyatapoul temple square are some of the major attractions in and around the Palace. You can visit the painting schools here, view the Thangkas, and artforms around this fantastic city. You can taste the local Newari cuisine and the famous king curd (Juju Dhau) in Bhaktapur. Return to your hotel and stroll around Thamel in your evening today. Overnight at Kathmandu.
Your last day in Nepal will be full of joy and happiness as you look back to the achievements of your trek in Nepal. After a parting breakfast with Himalayan Pic Du Midi staffs and guides, we will collect your experiences and feedbacks before taking you to the airport for departure. We will follow up with your suggestions and push forward for even better services.
What's Included/Excluded
Accommodation
- Four-nights Hotel in Kathmandu and two nights hotel in Pokhara with B/B basis
- Teahouse Accommodation while on the trek
Meals
- Welcome and farewell dinner at Nepali Kitchen
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and tea/coffee) while on the trek
Transportation
- Airport pickups and drops in a private vehicle
- All ground transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
Extras
- Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu and Pokhara/Entrance Fee
- All necessary paperwork and Annapurna Conservation Area Project/TIMS
- Professional & government licensed holder English Speaking Trekking Guide
- Porter service (2 trekkers: 1 porter)
- Staff costs including their salary, insurance, equipment, food and accommodation
- Warm clothing and other required trekking gear for staff including porters woolen hat, gloves, shocks, shoes & sunglasses etc…
- Entrance fee of all Monastery & Museums during the Trek
- Medicine Box for Guide/Porters
- Trekking Map
- All government and Local Taxes
Not Included
- International Airfare and Nepal Visa fee
- Travel & Health Insurance
- Emergency Helicopter Rescue Insurance
- Lunch & Dinner in Kathmandu
- Any Alcoholic Drinks, Water and deserts in Trek
- Hot Shower/Battery Charges/International call/WIFI & Internet on trek
- Unforeseen Cost such as Flight Cancellation
- Tips for guides and porters
Notes
* Your big Luggage should be 12 kg each without your Carry bag (small bag). You have to carry 4/5 kg with a small bag during you walking on the Trekking. Your small bag should be over 30 to 40L.
* You have to bring personal medicine box for the mountain. You have to good physical condition is necessary to travel in Nepal. It is recommended to go to doctor for a checkup before coming to Nepal.
Essential Information
TREKKING EQUIPMENT LIST- 1 Pair of hiking boots
- 1 Medium size backpack
- 1 Day pack
- 1 Sleeping bag (-20 C)
- 1 Down Jacket/Gore tax Jacket
- 1 Light wind & water proof jacket
- 1 Inner sleeping sheet
- 2 Long sleeve T-shirts
- 1 Water bottle
- 1 Pair gaiters/over trousers
- 1 Pair sport shoes or sandal
- 2 Pairs light weight trousers
- 1 Pair shorts
- 1 Fleece / warm sweater
- 2 T-shirts
- 2 Pair’ light socks
- 3 Pairs heavy wool socks
- 1 Sweatshirts / light sweater
- 1 Torch & spear batteries
- 1 Swimming costume / bathing suits
- 1 Medium size towel
- 1 Washing kit including washing powder, small clothesline and pegs, insect repellents etc. & personal toiletries
- Moleskin for blister
- Swiss type of army knife
- Toilet paper, biodegradable soap/shampoo
- Personal medication.
- Underwear (including thermals)
- Warm hat/ gloves
- Sunglasses, sun hat and sun cream
- Spear plastic bags for wrapping clothes