Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days

On the first day of the trek you will arrive in Kathmandu. You will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. As you will be transferred to your hotel, you will be briefed about the permits, equipment and the route ahead. The remaining part of the day will be spent exploring the streets of Thamel and be ready for Annapurna circuit trek. 

This Annapurna Circuit Trek begins in the classical starting point of the circuit Syange, which is 7-8 hours drive from Kathmandu. The road begins in the capital city, then follows the rural landscape of central Nepal as terraced paddy fields, villages perched on the hills, roaring rivers, and far off peaks change as you progress. The hike is an interesting introduction to the remote region of Nepal and is also an introduction to the areas that support the trekking communities in the Annapurna region.

It passes through Lamjung District before it reaches Besisahar (760m) which is regarded to be the starting point of Annapurna Circuit Trek. This is the last place you can rely on ATMs, banks, pharmacies and larger supply stores, and is the best spot to get cash or any last bits of supplies for the trek into the mountains.

Following Besisahar, the road heads down deep valleys and through stunning Himalayan scenery through the river valleys of the Marsyangdi that will be with us for the next five days. The road gets rougher the further you drive towards Syange.

Syange is a small village located on the slopes of the mountain on the banks of the river, where you can see suspension bridges, waterfalls and traditional teahouses. Annapurna Circuit tonight – your first experience with teahouses! Accommodation is simple but comfortable and the meal is usually Dal Bhat, the famous staple of the Nepali people which has sustained generations of trekkers throughout the Himalayas.

On the third day, it's all about exploring forests and waterfalls, and getting first sightings of the mountain. Day 3 is all about seeing the forests and waterfalls, and first mountain views.

The hike will take about 5-6 hours today with a climb of about 1060 metres into the spectacular Marsyangdi River gorge leading deeper into the Annapurna region. This section of the lower Annapurna Circuit Trek is through a thick jungle of rhododendron, pine and bamboo trees.

Much of the day is spent listening to the roar of the Marsyangdi River and there are a number of waterfalls pouring down steep hillsides into the valley. This is an unforgettable start to the trekking in the Himalayas thanks to its abundant forest, impressive gorges and the roaring water.

You will pass the vital checkpoint of Jagat (1300m) on the way where ACAP permits are also regularly checked. It is one of the first circuit control points officially, and offers a brief break before proceeding up the hill.

The Dharapani (1,960m), at the junction of Marsyangdi river and Dudh Khola, is further ahead. Dharapani lies in a mountainous area with steep cliffs and impressive waterfalls, and was an important junction for many trade and trekking routes through the Himalayas.

As the elevation increases the subtropical forests gradually give way to hills covered with pines. Even langur monkeys can be spotted crawling through the canopy over. As the afternoon wanes, you reach Bagarchhap (2,160m) and begin to sense the culture that is the core of the upper Annapurna Circuit with stone roofed houses, prayer wheels, and architecture influenced by Tibet.

The walk between Bagarchhap and Chame looks like it should take 5/6 hours and has a gentle rise of approximately 510m. The hike today will be a significant leap into the alpine country of Nepal from this subtropical part.

The trail traverses beautiful pine and spruce forests and typical mountain villages such as Danaque, Timang and Thanchok. The villages have unique Tibetan architecture, prayer flags and traditions from centuries in the High Himalayas.

Higher up, the views of the mountain are more dramatic. The panoramic view of Lamjung Himal and also Annapurna II (7937m) is one of the highlights of the day that the snow clad slopes of these two peaks dominate the skyline as you approach Chame.

Chame is located at 2670m and home to the headquarter of Manang district and is also one of the most developed villages along the Annapurna Circuit. The trekkers will find better accommodation facilities than in the previous villages, a greater choice of accommodation, as well as bakery, trekking shops, and internet facilities.

Chame is also the last big village before Manang, and is an ideal place to purchase the final supplies needed for trekking. This is a good point to begin the Annapurna Circuit, many modern trekkers begin from Kathmandu or Besisahar, cutting off the trek to return to Kathmandu, but keeping the most stunning segment of the trek at high altitudes.
 

This hike on the day will take you up from 530 to 640 metres up to some of the most breathtaking views of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. On the right side of the path, there are rugged mountains and steep cliffs in the background, while snow-capped hills are visible in the distance.

The most popular landmark of the day is Paungda Danda or "Hot Wall. This massive curved rock face soars up the valley from the floor and is regarded as one of the most impressive rock formations on the whole circuit. It's so massive that it is an unforgettable backdrop as you ascend further into the mountains.

There are a number of exciting suspension bridge crossings of the Marsyangdi river during the day, so it is an eventful day with some adventure. These bridges are located high up and up on top of the river; and provide excellent panoramic views of the gorge and rugged landscape.

The steep gully opens out at Lower Pisang (3200m) to a large flat high altitude plateau. Here you can be rewarded with the first majestic views of Annapurna III (7555m) and Gangapurna (7455m), two of the tallest peaks in the area.

Other hikers choose to go further up to take a short walk to the small village of Upper Pisang (3310m), on the ridge with its beautiful view. Upper Pisang has better mountain views, less touristy and more of an authentic place than Lower Pisang. The village is also a home to the beautiful Buddhist monastery Pisang Gompa, which overlooks the valley below.

Upper Pisang is one of the most rewarding overnight enclosures on the Annapurna Circuit with its beauty of the Himalayas and the variety of culture.

This hike is one of the best hikes on the Annapurna Circuit Trek today. There are two highly recommended trails and the high trail via Ghyaru and the trail to Ngawal both of which offer a great deal of beauty, cultural experiences, acclimatisation and the lower valley trail. Ensured 7-9 hrs of trekking in some of the best landscape in Annapurna region.

First of all the day consists of a steep climb to an old village named Manangi, Ghyaru (3670m). Prayer flags are fluttering from chortens that can be seen from the majestic eyes of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV (7,525m) and Gangapurna. The settlement has traditional and old stone houses and centuries old Buddhist traditions which imparts a timeless ambiance.

From here, it is up the high road to the peaceful village of Ngawal (3660m) which is only slightly quieter than other villages on the circuit. Enjoy a wonderful view around you, the mountains are covered with snow in the background.

The path is fairly flat as it descends to the biggest village on the Annapurna Circuit – Manang (3540m) by afternoon. The settlement contains bakeries, equipment shops, comfortable lodges, even a tiny cinema, which shows trekking documentaries and mountaineering films.

A beautiful 500 year old monastery which is perched on top of the valley, from which you can enjoy a short walk to the village of Braga. It is hierarchical and features 108 statues of Buddha made of clay and is still a significant religious centre in the region.

The Manang is home to Manangi people whose way of living is influenced by their Tibetan Buddhist tradition, their trading culture and unique way of life. The acclimatisation day on tomorrow will prove to be an important factor in getting ready for the above elevations ahead.

It is indeed a big day in the entire Annapurna Circuit Trek! Above an elevation of 3,000m, the human body needs to acclimatise to the lower oxygen levels which can take time. The level of oxygen present in air at Manang is low, due to the air pressure being approximately 65% of sea level. The race to the top also increases the risk of getting Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Highly recommended to attend the HRA Clinic at Manang. The clinic is offering free altitude-awareness sessions daily which will include discussion of AMS, HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and how to recognize and treat these.

Common AMS effects consist of headaches, nausea, dizziness, unusual fatigue and loss of appetite. The main principle to follow is: if it gets worse: go down! No mountain pass is worth a risk to one's health.

There are a number of very good acclimatisation walks available. After 7-9 hours of return trek it leads you to the beautiful Annapurna range which is the toughest of the lake, called the Ice lake (4620m). Those who wish for a less challenging trek can head to Gangapurna Lake (3700m) to enjoy a stunning turquoise coloured lake, encircled by a glacier. The next place is historic 100 Rupees Lama Cave (Praken Gompa, 3900m) which is said to be the place where meditation has been practiced for more than 200 years.

The rest of the day should be spent relaxing, drinking fluids and getting ready for the high altitude stages to come. Consume 3-4 litres of water, eat a carbohydrate meal and do an additional gear check. It's imperative that you have warm clothing, trekking poles with you, food, gloves and a headlamp for the pre-dawn trek that you must make to cross Thorong La.

This walk is an easy one today, taking around 4-5 hours of walking, as we slowly make our way above the tree line. Then, we enter Manang and things begin to change. Almost all of the forests have been removed and replaced with rock faces, glacial moraines, alpine meadows and alpine wind blown terrain.

The track gently climbs up towards the small settlement of Yak Kharka (4,050m) where the yak herders come in summer. Before heading to Thorong La Pass, it was in the middle of grazing land and the rugged mountains.

This is the trail to Thorong Phedi (4,450m) which means "foot of the hill". The scenes are reminiscent of the base camp of the mountain where people from all over the world are resting, refreshing and preparing themselves for the journey that lies ahead.

Some trekkers opt to go to Thorong High Camp (4925m) to cut short the trek of the following day. Basic sleeping gear, much colder at High Camp and a good sleeping bag are essential. During clear nights and with sunset, it's a great job to enjoy some great sightings of peaks of the Himalayas topped with snow and starry skies.

At these elevations, it is most important to get plenty of rest, fluids and food. Good health and plenty of water and early bedtime is of great importance as most trekkers start crossing Thorong La at 3:00am to 4:00am. If the symptoms of AMS are experienced it is advisable to come down to Manang, preferably High Camp.
 

This is an overnight climb and it is highly recommended to acclimatize before climbing today (3-4 hrs) over Thorong La Pass. The rising motion helps the body acclimatize as they climb, and conserve energy for the next day.

It is situated on the eastern side of the Jarang Khola and steepens once one gets into the river. The number of people breathing into the less dense and colder air, steep bluffs, bare slopes and high elevation landscapes is diminishing.

Thorong Phedi (foothill) is at the foot of the steep slopes which lead to Thorong La Pass. The majority of trekkers take the afternoon off after which they get organised, hydrated and mentally prepared for the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Should be monitored for wildlife on the hillsides around. Common rockslope inhabitants are the Blue Sheep and the elusive Snow Leopard; they are found in the higher altitudes of this region. Lammergeier or Bearded Vulture is one of the biggest birds in the Himalayas, frequently seen as soaring giant birds above the Himalayan hills. According to local legend there are mythical griffins in these exotic mountains!

It is important to have a good night's sleep and eat early meals. The day of crossing Thorong la pass will be the toughest day, but the most amazing of the march.

This is the most important day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The majority of trekkers leave around 3:00 to 4:00 AM and begin their climb at night. Often very cold, full cold weather clothing is essential – down jacket, gloves, thermal clothing and a balaclava.

The time taken from Thorong Phedi to reach Thorong La Pass (5416m) is normally 4-5 hours. There they are making progress... albeit slow. Breathing at only 47% of sea level oxygen at 5,416 m and each step will be much more challenging!

As you reach the summit, it's a moment you won't soon forget. Colorful prayer flags are flown over the pass and beyond and barren land of Mustang District is seen beyond and back-sighted Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Annapurna range. There is a stone cairn to mark the highest point of the trek and it is the ideal spot for celebrations and photo opportunities.

The weather can quickly get bad, so it's important to get it done in time. Winds, clouds and low visibility in the afternoon are common, snow and ice can occur on the trail during December to February.

Its descent, from a steep and loose terrain to Muktinath is approximately 1600m and a long steep journey. This is a 1.5-2 hour downhill, and may be a strain on tired knees – it's the trekker's poles that will save them.

On entering Muktinath at 3760m it's very satisfying and fun. It is one of the prominent destinations for pilgrimage in Nepal for the Hindu as well as the Buddhist communities to visit the holy Muktinath Temple. In the complex there are 108 holy water spouts and an eternal flame, which is fueled by natural underground gas. The site is sacred to Lord Vishnu for Hindus and for the tantric cult of Buddhism it is sacred.

Not many people will remember Thorong La Pass! The culmination of the preparation, acclimatisation and, safely, travelling down from the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit to the Muktinath valley is one of the greatest moments of elation and achievement.

The high altitude of Thorong La Pass is followed by a dramatic change in scenery on the drive of the day as you descend about 1480 metres through the legendary Kali Gandaki Valley. This trek goes through various culturally rich communities such as Marpha, Tukuche, Larjung and Ghasa and reaches Tatopani.

The most spectacular part of the day is to get through the Kali Gandaki Gorge between Dhaulagiri (8,167m) to the west and Annapurna I (8,091m) to the east. It is in a river valley that by some sources is the deepest in the world, in which there is a considerable vertical drop of the valley and its surrounding peaks.

Tukuche is an old trading town, which gives a glimpse of centuries of the old trading tradition and architecture in the Himalayas. The narrow alleys and the amazing views of Dhaulagiri on the way, stone built houses are an experience never to be forgotten.

This natural wind tunnel phenomenon is also observed in the Kali Gandaki Valley and there are strong winds in the afternoon hours that blow through the gorge. On the way to Ghasa (2010m) the terrain gradually shifts. The pine tree vegetation is replaced by subtropical vegetation, waterfalls can be seen again and the temperatures are quite high.

In the afternoon it reaches Tatopani (1190m) in Myagdi District. The village is named “Tatopani” meaning ‘hot water' in Nepali and home to the renowned natural hot springs. Soaking in the pools, surrounded by the mountain scenery is one of the most rewarding experiences of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the ideal recovery after crossing Thorong La.

One of the most challenging and steepest walks of the second half of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The path is fairly long at 6–7 hours with an ascent of some 1,684 metres and slowly ascends from the subtropical valley to the higher ridges of the Annapurna region.

From the hot springs the route climbs, passing through dense forests and the traditional mountain villages. The Gurung village of Shikha (1935m) is one of the most interesting places where the stone paths, terraced fields and culture, which are still largely rural, have changed little over the years.

As one goes up the hill, this wood becomes more and more beautiful and pretty. Oak trees, bamboo and rhododendron trees dominate the landscape making it one of the most famous landscapes for trekking in Nepal. March and April are the colour months of the forests when one will see red, pink and white rhododendrons growing on the hill sides.

In the late afternoon, reach the lively trekking village of Ghorepani (2874m) where there are sufficient teahouses and lodges. The views are good from the evening from the settlement to Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South (7219m).

One of the important places from which the old route of Annapurna Circuit begins and extends to the famous Poon Hill route, is Ghorepani. The sun is just touching the mountains and everyone is eagerly waiting for the sunrise tomorrow, from one of the most popular viewpoints in Nepal.

The last day of the trek starts early in the morning at Ghorepani village before dawn, and goes up to Poon Hill at 3210m for an hour. The majority of trekkers begin early (around 4:30 to 5:00 AM) and ascend to the summit of the mountain from where they can enjoy a panoramic view of the sunrise from one of the best vantage points in Nepal.

The sun is just beginning to rise over the Himalayas, creating an unusual mountain scene. The Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the Annapurna I (8,091m), Annapurna South, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli and the iconic Fish Tail Mountain (7,800m) Machapuchhare shine in shades of gold and orange. For many trekkers Poon Hill is the best of the best spots on the whole Annapurna range.

After enjoying the view, wait for the sunrise, take pictures and come back to Ghorepani for breakfast; then, head down. Travels through villages of Ulleri (2073m), Tikhedhunga (1540m), Birethanti and Nayapul (1070m).

One of the highlights of the day is moving down the famous stone staircase “Ulleri”. The seemingly endless steps can be on tired legs but also a great end to the nearly 2 weeks spent in the mountains.

The last checkpoint at Birethanti is where the ACAP and TIMS permits are normally checked prior to departure from the conservation area. The end of the trekking section of the Annapurna Circuit is called Nayapul.

The one way vehicle transfer service will drop you at Pokhara and then brings you to Kathmandu. It's been over 160 kilometres of trekking through different landscapes, cultures and ecosystems and some time to reflect the completion of one of the greatest mountain adventures in the world.

Following breakfast you will be picked up by bus for your international flight to Tribhuvan International Airport. The experiences of Thorong La Pass, Manang, Muktinath, Poon Hill and the spectacular view of the Annapurna region are still etched in your mind after you're back home.

Private airport transfer to and from the hotel and the arrival at the airport is recommended 3 hours prior to the flight. The Annapurna Circuit ends here, but the memories, friendships and experiences that you have gained from the Himalayas will stay with you for a lifetime.