Annapurna Circuit Trek

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, a warm welcome awaits you from the team at Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours. One of our representatives will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. The bustling capital of Nepal, Kathmandu offers an intriguing blend of ancient tradition and modern lifestyle. After you check-in and settle into your room, you'll have some time to rest and freshen up after your international flight. Depending on your arrival time, you can either relax at your hotel or take a stroll through the nearby Thamel area, a lively tourist hub known for its colorful shops, cafes, and local art. In the evening, you’ll meet with your trekking guide for a briefing about the Annapurna Circuit Trek, where you’ll receive important information regarding the itinerary, terrain, safety, and packing essentials. This is also the perfect opportunity to ask any last-minute questions. Later, Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will host a welcome dinner in a traditional Nepali restaurant where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine and a cultural dance performance. This marks the beginning of a memorable Himalayan journey ahead.

Today is set aside for both exploration and preparation. After breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, organized by Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours, covering several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. Your first stop is Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu shrines, followed by the Boudhanath Stupa, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site adorned with colorful prayer flags. Next, you’ll explore the Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of the valley below. The tour ends with a visit to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic royal palace complex showcasing traditional Newari architecture. After lunch, you’ll return to the hotel for a pre-trek briefing. Your trekking gear will be checked, and permits such as the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card will be issued. You can shop for any last-minute essentials or gear in Thamel. The evening is free to relax or make final preparations. The excitement builds as your trek begins the next day. Your overnight stay in Kathmandu includes breakfast and sets the stage for the journey into the majestic Himalayas.

After an early breakfast, your journey with Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours truly begins as you leave the bustling city of Kathmandu behind and head west towards the Annapurna region. The drive is long—taking around 8 to 10 hours—but it offers incredible diversity in scenery, from lush valleys and terraced fields to rugged cliffs and gushing rivers. The first portion of the road is relatively smooth as you follow the Prithvi Highway, passing towns like Mugling and Dumre before turning towards Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From here, the road becomes more rugged and adventurous, transitioning into a bumpy off-road experience filled with sharp turns, waterfalls, and narrow cliffside paths. You’ll pass through several small villages and witness your first glimpses of rural Nepalese mountain life. Depending on road conditions, you’ll either stay overnight in Syange or Jagat, both small settlements nestled beside the Marsyangdi River. Tonight, you’ll relax in a local teahouse, enjoying the rustic atmosphere and preparing for your trek to begin the next morning. Your guide will review tomorrow’s route and offer tips on acclimatization and trekking etiquette. This long but scenic drive sets the stage for the exciting mountain adventure ahead.

Today marks the first day on foot as you begin your trek from Syange or Jagat toward Dharapani. After a hearty breakfast at the teahouse, you’ll shoulder your backpack and begin walking along a trail that meanders through dense forests, steep cliffs, and terraced farmlands. The trail ascends gradually, offering incredible views of cascading waterfalls and roaring river currents. You’ll cross several suspension bridges, one of which is quite dramatic, suspended high above the Marsyangdi River. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Gurung and Tamang villages like Chamje and Tal—where the landscape opens up into a flat valley surrounded by high hills. Tal is particularly striking, with its waterfall-fed riverbanks and wide valley floor, giving you the first real sense of walking in the Himalayas. After lunch in Tal, the trail climbs steadily to Dharapani, a bustling village where several trekking routes converge. The day’s hike takes about 7 to 8 hours depending on pace and breaks. Once in Dharapani, you’ll check into a cozy teahouse and enjoy a well-earned meal. The village is a great place to relax and interact with fellow trekkers. Your team from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will ensure you’re well-acclimatized and comfortable.

After breakfast, you leave Dharapani and continue deeper into the Manang District. Today’s trek gradually ascends through a mix of pine and fir forests with stunning views of snow-capped peaks beginning to emerge more prominently. The trail winds through quaint villages like Bagarchhap and Danakyu, where traditional stone houses and spinning prayer wheels give the area a spiritual charm. As you climb higher, the air becomes crisper and the views more expansive. You’ll pass through Timang, a beautiful village offering one of the best panoramic views of Manaslu (8,163m) and surrounding peaks. Here, you'll stop for tea or lunch before continuing on to Chame, the administrative headquarters of the Manang District. Chame is a larger village compared to others you’ve passed, offering basic facilities including shops, internet access, and even a natural hot spring just outside town. You’ll notice prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and Buddhist chortens and mani walls along the route. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your teahouse, where you can enjoy a warm meal and comfortable lodging. The team from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will monitor your health and provide acclimatization advice, as you’re now trekking at higher altitudes.

Today’s trek offers dramatic changes in landscape as you make your way from Chame to Pisang. After breakfast, the trail follows the Marsyangdi River, cutting through deep pine forests and crossing several suspension bridges that offer thrilling views of the rushing water below. The steep, rocky trails begin to reveal the majestic peaks of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. One of the highlights of this section is the incredible Paungda Danda rock face, a massive sloping wall of rock that rises 1,500 meters above the river—its unique curvature resembling the bow of a ship. This marvel of natural architecture is revered by locals and is often a subject of awe for trekkers. As you continue on, the air becomes noticeably thinner and cooler. You’ll pass through small hamlets like Bharatang and Dhikur Pokhari, where you’ll stop for a warm lunch and enjoy the surrounding alpine terrain. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Pisang, a picturesque village divided into Lower and Upper sections. Upper Pisang is recommended for better acclimatization and incredible sunset views over the Annapurna range. After checking into your teahouse, your guide from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will brief you on the next day’s scenic trek into the heart of Manang.

Today's trek is considered one of the most visually stunning days of the entire Annapurna Circuit. Leaving Upper Pisang, you take the upper trail—a more challenging but scenic route that passes through Ghyaru and Ngawal, traditional villages perched on a ridge with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Annapurna massif, including Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The trail ascends steeply at first, requiring strong effort and controlled pacing, but the rewards are immediate: dramatic landscapes, colorful prayer flags, and ancient monasteries along the path. Ghyaru and Ngawal offer cultural insights, showcasing Tibetan-influenced architecture and centuries-old Buddhist traditions. Lunch is usually taken in Ngawal before descending slightly to the valley floor toward Manang. The terrain shifts into a high-altitude desert, with sparse vegetation and rocky cliffs framing the landscape. You’ll begin to notice the thinner air and colder temperatures, which is why Manang is the perfect place to stop for acclimatization. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your teahouse and enjoy views of Gangapurna Glacier and Annapurna III towering above. The village is lively, with bakeries, shops, and even a small cinema. Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours ensures you get well-rested and stay hydrated as you adjust to the altitude.

Rest days are essential in high-altitude trekking, and Manang is ideally situated for acclimatization. Today, you won’t be trekking long distances, but instead, you’ll take short hikes around the area to help your body adjust to the elevation of 3,500 meters. After breakfast, your guide from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours may lead a short acclimatization hike to the Gangapurna Lake or to Chongkor Viewpoint, which provides panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Tilicho Peak, and the Gangapurna Glacier. Another option is a visit to the 100 Lamas Monastery, which sits above the village and offers insights into local Buddhist customs. You’ll return to your teahouse for lunch and have time to relax in the afternoon—visit a local café, check out the Himalayan Rescue Association's clinic for an informative session on altitude sickness, or simply enjoy the alpine serenity. Acclimatization days are crucial for preventing AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), especially with the major altitude gains ahead. Your team will carefully monitor your health and hydration. By evening, as the stars begin to twinkle over the snow-covered peaks, you’ll feel both rested and ready to tackle the higher elevations awaiting you tomorrow.

Today’s trek is shorter but climbs steadily into higher alpine territory. After breakfast, you leave the relative comfort of Manang behind and ascend through sparse juniper and alpine scrub vegetation. The scenery becomes increasingly barren and dramatic as you pass by yak pastures and ancient stone walls. The air is noticeably thinner, so a slow and steady pace is essential. Along the trail, you may spot Himalayan blue sheep or grazing yaks—symbols of life at these high altitudes. You’ll pass through the small settlement of Gunsang before reaching Yak Kharka, a quiet outpost with a few lodges nestled beneath towering cliffs. The name "Yak Kharka" literally means "Yak Pasture," and true to its name, you’ll likely see plenty of yaks grazing in the fields. This stage of the trek is a critical point for gradual acclimatization, with the altitude now over 4,000 meters. After checking into your teahouse, you’ll have time to relax, enjoy hot soup or tea, and prepare mentally for the upcoming ascent to Thorong Phedi. The team from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will continue to monitor your condition and ensure a safe and steady progression through the Himalayas.

Today’s trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is short but crucial for acclimatization and preparation for the Thorong La crossing. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through dry alpine terrain, with the river far below and towering cliffs on either side. You’ll cross a wooden bridge and slowly climb towards Ledar before continuing along a trail that winds above the valley floor. Caution is necessary here, as some areas are prone to landslides and loose gravel. Take your time and follow the advice of your guide from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours. The pace is intentionally slower today to help your body adapt to the elevation, as you approach the 4,600-meter mark. After around 3 to 4 hours, you’ll reach Thorong Phedi, the last settlement before crossing Thorong La Pass. This is a rugged and isolated outpost with basic lodges but offers shelter, food, and stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Spend the afternoon resting, hydrating, and preparing for an early start tomorrow. The team will check your physical condition and ensure you're fit for the big day ahead. The evening is quiet, as trekkers from around the world gather here, united by a shared anticipation of conquering the highest point of the circuit.

This is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the entire Annapurna Circuit Trek. Your day starts very early—usually around 4:00 AM—to ensure you cross Thorong La Pass before the strong midday winds pick up. The ascent begins immediately, with headlamps lighting your way as you zigzag up steep, snow-covered slopes. It’s a slow and steady climb over rocky terrain and snowy paths, with freezing temperatures and thin air testing your endurance. After about 4 hours of climbing, you’ll reach the Thorong La Pass (5,416m)—the highest point of the trek. At the summit, colorful prayer flags flap in the wind, and a wooden signboard marks your accomplishment. The views are absolutely breathtaking, with endless panoramas of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges stretching in every direction. After taking photos and catching your breath, the descent begins—equally challenging due to steep and loose trails. The landscape quickly transforms from alpine desert into a greener, more fertile region as you descend toward Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. Once in Muktinath, you can visit the famous Muktinath Temple and its 108 water spouts. Your team from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours ensures you rest and recover after this unforgettable day.

After breakfast in Muktinath, you’ll trade trekking boots for four wheels as your journey continues by jeep along a rough but scenic road. The drive from Muktinath to Tatopani descends rapidly through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, flanked by the massive peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. The route passes through charming villages like Kagbeni and Jomsom, where the barren Mustang landscape transitions into greener terrain. You’ll stop for lunch in Marpha or Tukuche, known for apple orchards and locally made brandy, before continuing southward. The road is rugged and bumpy but the changing scenery—from arid plateaus to lush hillsides—is captivating. Upon arrival in Tatopani, meaning "hot water" in Nepali, you’ll have the chance to relax in the region’s famous natural hot springs—a perfect way to ease your muscles after the strenuous days of trekking. These rejuvenating springs lie along the riverbank, surrounded by forested hills. Tatopani is also a culturally rich village, offering insight into the life of the Thakali people. Your guide from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will arrange your stay at a comfortable teahouse, and you’ll enjoy a hearty meal before a restful night.

After a relaxing evening in Tatopani, today’s trek involves a long but steady climb back into the higher hills as you head toward Ghorepani. The trail begins by crossing a suspension bridge over the Kali Gandaki River and then gradually ascends through lush rhododendron and oak forests. You'll pass charming Magar villages like Sikha and Chitre, where terraced farms and traditional stone houses reflect the rural mountain lifestyle. As you climb higher, the scenery becomes increasingly forested and misty, particularly if you’re trekking during the spring bloom when rhododendrons burst into vibrant color. The ascent is continuous, and while not as demanding as Thorong La, it requires stamina and persistence. Upon reaching Ghorepani, you’ll find yourself in a picturesque village nestled on a ridgeline with views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. Ghorepani is also the gateway to Poon Hill, the iconic sunrise viewpoint. After checking into your teahouse, you’ll have time to explore the village or simply relax with a cup of tea while admiring the views. Your team from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will discuss the optional pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill for sunrise the next morning.

Early risers have the option of a sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210m), one of the most celebrated viewpoints in Nepal. This 45-minute pre-dawn hike rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and several other peaks glowing in golden hues. After returning to Ghorepani for breakfast, the trail leads eastward toward Tadapani, descending and ascending through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. This stretch is one of the most beautiful in the entire trek, particularly during spring. Birds chirp overhead, and if you’re lucky, you may spot langurs or barking deer along the path. After a few hours of rolling terrain and short ascents, you arrive in Tadapani, a small settlement perched on a ridge with jaw-dropping mountain views. The sunset from Tadapani often mirrors the magic of Poon Hill, and the serene atmosphere is ideal for reflection as your journey nears its end. Tonight, you’ll stay at a cozy lodge arranged by Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours, enjoying a warm meal and reminiscing over the incredible experiences of the past two weeks.

Your final day of trekking begins with a descent from Tadapani to Ghandruk, one of the most culturally rich and beautiful Gurung villages in the region. The trail is mostly downhill, winding through rhododendron forests and terraced farmlands. As you approach Ghandruk, the sight of traditional stone houses with slate roofs, set against the dramatic backdrop of Machhapuchhre and Annapurna South, creates a postcard-perfect scene. You’ll stop here for lunch and have time to explore the village’s cultural museum or interact with the friendly locals, who often wear traditional attire. From Ghandruk, the trail continues downhill to Nayapul, passing through farmlands and riverbanks. Upon reaching Nayapul, your trekking journey officially concludes. A private vehicle arranged by Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will drive you to Pokhara, a scenic lakeside city known for its relaxed vibe and natural beauty. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have the evening free to unwind by Phewa Lake, enjoy dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants, or even get a well-deserved massage. Your Himalayan journey winds down here in comfort and reflection.

After breakfast by the tranquil lakeside, you’ll begin your journey back to Kathmandu by tourist vehicle. The drive takes about six hours, following the scenic Prithvi Highway, which offers views of lush valleys, flowing rivers, and rural hilltop settlements. Along the way, you can reflect on the incredible journey you’ve completed—from the high Himalayan passes to the spiritual hubs of the Annapurna region. You’ll stop for lunch en route and arrive in Kathmandu by afternoon or early evening. Upon arrival, Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will transfer you to your hotel for a final night in the capital. The evening is yours to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. For those interested, the team can arrange a cultural show or celebratory dinner. After over two weeks in the mountains, this comfortable evening in Kathmandu provides a relaxing transition back to city life.

Your unforgettable journey through the Annapurna Circuit comes to an end today. Depending on your flight schedule, a representative from Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours will escort you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. If your flight is later in the day, you may have time for a final stroll through Thamel to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a relaxing breakfast. As you board your flight, you carry with you unforgettable memories—of soaring Himalayan peaks, welcoming local communities, cultural insights, and personal accomplishments. Whether you came for adventure, peace, or cultural immersion, the Annapurna Circuit will remain etched in your heart. Rediscover Nepal Treks & Tours thanks you for choosing them as your trekking partner and wishes you safe travels with hopes of seeing you again for future adventures in the Himalayas.