Annapurna Circuit Trek

The journey begins with a long yet rewarding drive from Kathmandu along the Prithvi Highway, following the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers. As the road winds through terraced farmlands, rural settlements, and lush green hills, the scenery gradually transforms into a rugged mountain landscape. Dharapani serves as the official gateway to the Annapurna Circuit and marks the transition from road travel to the trekking adventure ahead.

Today’s trek enters the Manang District, where the air becomes cooler and the vegetation denser with towering pine and fir forests. The trail passes through traditional villages and suspension bridges while offering the first close-up views of Annapurna II. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, sits beneath dramatic mountain cliffs and provides a true Himalayan village atmosphere.

The trek continues through a spectacular narrow valley dominated by the famous “Great Ice Wall,” a massive 1,500-meter-high curved rock face rising sharply above the trail. As altitude increases, the landscape becomes drier and more alpine. Overnight in Upper Pisang allows trekkers to experience traditional Tibetan-style settlements and enjoy exceptional sunrise and sunset views over the Annapurna range.

This day follows the renowned “Panoramic Trail,” taking the higher route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. Although more demanding, this trail rewards trekkers with sweeping views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak from above the valley floor. The descent leads to Manang, the cultural and logistical hub of the region, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan scenery.

A crucial acclimatization day to ensure safety and proper adjustment to altitude. Short hikes are recommended, including visits to the turquoise Gangapurna Lake or the ancient Braga Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the region. The day also provides an opportunity to explore Manang village, interact with locals, and prepare physically and mentally for higher elevations.

The trail gradually ascends above the tree line into open alpine terrain. Walking time is shorter to support acclimatization as we cross the 4,000-meter mark. The landscape is dotted with grazing yaks and, with luck, sightings of Blue Sheep. Yak Kharka is a small high-altitude settlement surrounded by vast pastures and mountain vistas.

A steady climb brings us closer to Thorong La Pass. The environment becomes stark and dramatic, resembling an arctic desert with sparse vegetation and powerful mountain winds. Thorong Phedi sits at the base of the pass and serves as the final overnight stop before the summit crossing. An early dinner and rest are essential in preparation for the challenging day ahead.

The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek begins before dawn, around 4:00 AM. After a gradual ascent, we reach Thorong La Pass, the world’s widest high mountain pass, marked by prayer flags and panoramic Himalayan views. After celebrating this major achievement, a long descent of approximately 1,600 meters leads to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

After visiting the Muktinath Temple, the journey continues by vehicle through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, flanked by Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. The dramatic landscapes gradually give way to greener hills as we arrive in Pokhara, Nepal’s most popular tourist city, where a relaxing lakeside evening awaits.

The trek concludes with a return to Kathmandu either by a scenic 25-minute flight offering Himalayan views or a comfortable 7–8 hour tourist bus ride through Nepal’s countryside. Upon arrival, enjoy a farewell dinner in the capital, reflecting on an unforgettable journey across one of the world’s classic trekking routes.