Annapurna Circuit

We begin our trip by driving from Kathmandu through Prithvi Highway to Besisahar, for around 6-7 hours. After having lunch in Besisahar, we head to Shyange Village on a private four-wheeled jeep for 3 hours (28 kilometers). On the way, we will pass the delightful Gurung and Magar towns, and will enjoy the lovely waterfalls of Lamjung Himal and the snow-covered mountain views. We will stay overnight at Shyange Waterfall Lodge appreciating the tranquil sounds of the cascades.

The following day, our day will begin with a delicious and hearty breakfast. After breakfast, we prepare for our day’s trek to Tal. After an hour’s trek from Shyange, we will reach a quaint town called Jagat, where we will get to see wonderful waterfalls and Koyeprokyu Khola. Leaving the town behind, we will cross a couple of more towns, waterfalls, and picturesque fields and reach Tal. Tal is perhaps the best spot to visit the nearby waterfalls and small lakes. We will stroll around the settlement in the evening and enjoy the quaint town.

As we walk away from Tal, the path becomes more rugged and serpentine. Our trail will cross the forested settlement of Karte and Dharepani. We continue ascending through forests of pine and oak enjoying the remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Soon we will reach Dankyu where we will be staying overnight.

After early morning breakfast, we leave Danakyu behind and climb the tough path to Timang town. On our way, we’ll be surrounded by the green forest around and over us, we’ll see a pleasant view of Mt. Manaslu and other snow-capped mountains. The trail from Timang to Chame is moderately challenging through Thanchock. We will be staying overnight at Chame.

Day 5 – Trek from Chame to Pisang (3200m)

Today, we start the journey towards Pisang after having a delicious breakfast at our lodge. We walk through a steep and narrow valley, crossing a large suspension bridge over the Marshyangdi river. We will walk past apple ranch town Bartang, cross the overpass, and after somewhat difficulty, arrive at a wonderful town called Dhikurpokhari where we will take our mid-day break. After lunch, we head to Pisang with renewed spirit savoring the excellent mountain views of Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. We will rest for the night in Pisang.

After early morning breakfast, we move towards Manang town, Leaving Pisang, we stroll towards Braga town where we visit the 900 years old monastery, and afterward, we continuously trek towards Manang. Trek from Pisang to Manang is an astounding climb, strolling through pine timberland to high territory, crossing the overpasses over Marsayangdi River. The trail takes us through Tibetan settlement, beautiful monasteries, and finally, we reach the large settlement of Manang. Manang is a lively neighborhood and very enjoyable. We will spend the night here.

After early morning breakfast, we move towards Manang town, Leaving Pisang, we stroll towards Braga town where we visit the 900 years old monastery, and afterward, we continuously trek towards Manang. Trek from Pisang to Manang is an astounding climb, strolling through pine timberland to high territory, crossing the overpasses over Marsayangdi River. The trail takes us through Tibetan settlement, beautiful monasteries, and finally, we reach the large settlement of Manang. Manang is a lively neighborhood and very enjoyable. We will spend the night here.

Today, we spend the day in Manang and visit the old cloisters of Manang. We will climb up to the magnificent Iey Lake which is named after Gangapurna Lake. This lake is situated in the Marsayangdi River valley and will be an easy walk from our lodge. We will spend the day admiring Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks, exploring and enjoying the area, and prepare for our trek the following day.

After spending a day resting and acclimatizing at Manang, today we trek to Yak Kharka. Following our trail, we cross a stream and climb up to Tenki village then head out of Marshyangdi valley northwest. The trail ascends slowly through the dry landscape and old towns of Twngi and Gumsang. We will pass a few lovely pastures and juniper trees. The path slowly takes us to the higher elevation of the trip from where we can appreciate the intriguing views of the Himalayas. Once we reach Yak Kharka, we will have the opportunity to unwind and time to adjust for the following piece of the journey.

Our trip trail today will lead us to Thorung Phedi, the foot of Thorong La Pass. The trail will slowly ascend through the mountainous path then we follow a narrow trail and descend to Thorung Phedi. The rough rugged terrain will be more challenging to traverse but we will be able to enjoy the glorious mountain views on our way. We will stay overnight at Thorung Phedi.

Today is the most energizing and simultaneously difficult day as we trek across one of the most remarkable passes in Nepal-Throng La (5416m),  the highest point of the trek.

Setting off promptly in the first part of the day, we ascend to the Throng La pass through the early morning icy air. We trek for around 4 hours to arrive at the top from Phedi. The view from here is astonishing! You will be awe-struck by the astounding view of the stunning Kali Gandaki valley and the encompassing mountain tops like the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri massifs. Further along, we slowly trek downhill to Muktinath, a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. We stay overnight at Muktinath.

Our trip today will be comparatively easy and pleasant. After visiting the sacred temple, we leave Muktinath behind as we stroll down until we arrive at the spot called Kagbeni. From here, we proceed further down to Jomsom enjoying the excellent archaic towns; Jharkot and Kagbeni. Leaving Kagbeni behind, the walk will take us through the valley and into the bustling Jomsom bazaar. You will be able to see the panorama of Nilgiri North, Tukuchey top, Dhaulagiri massif, and many other snow-capped peaks during the day. We will stay overnight at Jomsom.

Today we continue our journey on a local bus ride to Tatopani. The drive will take us through the deepest gorges in the world, crossing the most profound canyon and few other awe-striking cascades and green woods en route. The bus will drop us off at Tatopani, a place famous for natural hot springs; an ideal place to relax after a huge journey in the mountains. Soaking in the rejuvenating hot springs, we reminisce on our tough trek to the mountains and savor our accomplishment. 

Awakening to the lovely song of the streaming waterway and birds; we will have our delicious breakfast and prepare for the drive to Pokhara. After around 6 hours of drive through serpentine roads, we will arrive at the beautiful and lively city of Pokhara. We will drop you off at your hotel and you will have the rest of the day to enjoy as you please; roam around the city and discover cute little cafes and eateries or simply stroll around the lakeside. You can also experience the thrill of paragliding, zip flying, bungee hopping, and super light flight. Take your time, enjoy and relax. You deserve it!