Annapurna Circuit Trek – 19 Days

After you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will have to go through custom formalities. You will be greeted by our representative who will be anxiously waiting for you with a placard displaying your name in his hand. You will be transferred to the 3-Star category hotel in a private vehicle.

Once you get refreshed, you will get briefing regarding the itinerary and you will also be introduced with your crewmembers and other trekkers who are going to join you on the trip. Enjoy welcome dinner in the evening where you can taste authentic Nepali dinner. Stay overnight in a hotel.

Today, we will take a sightseeing tour of the capital city and prepare for our Annapurna Circuit Trekking journey. After breakfast, we will organize a half-day sightseeing tour during which you will be taken on a memorable UNESCO Heritage Tour. The tour begins with a visit to Nepal’s holiest Pashupatinath Temple. It is one of the major pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can hear the sounds of bells, conch shells, and the chantings of mantras. The fragrance of incense and flowers also fills the air, which feels deeply spiritual. We will explore around the temple complex and the cremation ghat alongside the Bagmati River. 

Next, we will visit one of the largest Buddhist monuments of Nepal, the Bouddhanath Stupa. It is a 10-minute drive from Pasupatinath. The stupa is a massive white dome with a glazed tower and painted Buddha eyes in all four directions. The stupa is the spiritual hub for Tibetan Buddhists in the country. Hundreds of prayer wheels are around the stupa, which you can spin while walking clockwise. You can hear hums of monks chanting “Om Mani Padme Hum,” and occasional ringing of the bells from the monastery. Similarly, you can see monks performing circumambulation. 

An alternative to Boudhanath Stupa is a sightseeing tour to Swoyambhunath Stupa. It is a 25-35-minute drive from Pasupatinath. Also known as the “Monkey Temple,” it is a 2,500-year-old sacred Buddhist stupa. It sits on a hilltop and offers spectacular views of the Kathmandu Valley. We will climb 365 stone steps to reach the main stupa. You can experience a spiritual experience while listening to Buddhist chants and the sound of bells. 

After the half-day sightseeing tour, we will return to the hotel in the afternoon. We will use the remaining time to shop for any missing items, pack, and prepare for the trip.

After an early breakfast, we will drive along the scenic Prithvi Highway. We will take in the beautiful views of Nepal’s first cable car at Kurintar and the Marsyangdi River, en route to Besisahar. Similarly, we can see beautiful green hills and pass through charming rural countryside. The winding road is mostly paved up to Dumre. However, there are a few rough and bumpy sections. We will continue to drive alongside the Marsyangdi River Valley until we reach the Dumre/ Pokhara junction

We will leave the main trail towards Pokhara at Dumre and follow the branched road to Besisahar. The road starts to become more winding and narrower. We will pass through several villages, such as Bhulbhule. Besisahar is the District Headquarters of Lamjung. There is also a huge market area here. It has a subtropical climate, and subtropical with scattered pine forests surround the village. Stay overnight at the Guesthouse in Besisahar.

After breakfast, we will take a jeep to Dharapani via Syange. Following the bumpy road, we will drive northwards along the Marshyangdi River. The road is mostly rough with gravel and mud. So, prepare for a bumpy ride. It takes us to Bhulbhule and then passes by many ethnic villages on our way, such as Jagat, Syange, Tal, and more. 

As we drive on the winding road, we will cross suspension bridges and cascading waterfalls. We will enter the Manang district and reach Dharapani. It is the starting point of our Annapurna Circuit Trekking journey. On clear days, we can see the Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II in the distance. We will stay overnight at Dharapani.

We will have breakfast at Dharapani and start our trek. The Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail begins on a narrow dirt path along the Marshyangdi River. It enters the forests of rhododendrons and pine as we gradually start to ascend. En route, we can see small chortens and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. The Annapurna Circuit trek trail first takes us to Bagarchhap, the first Tibetan-style village. We can see traditional houses with slate roofs and hillside terrace farms here. 

The river valley opens up from here, and the trail takes us past rows of mani walls. We will start to climb uphill through forested slopes. Along the way, we will also cross several small suspension bridges over clear rushing streams. We can see Lamjung Himal as we climb higher to Dananque. The final stretch of the trail becomes steeper. We will pass by more mani walls and chortens before reaching the open village of Chame right above the river. We will spend the night at a teahouse in the village.

On day 6, we will leave Chame and resume our Annapurna Circuit Trek. We will start by following the winding stone path. The Marshyangdi River Valley lies below, and we will pass by small settlements with terraced fields. We will walk along the northern edge of the river and pass through a pine forest. Similarly, we will come across many mani walls and prayer flags. 

Moving through the dispersed villages, we will reach Bhartang. The village is famous for its apple orchards. Then, we will follow the gradually ascending path to the bridge. The trail climbs uphill through a pine forest to the top of Dhukur Pokhari Hill. We will enjoy the close-up view of Pisang Peak and Chulu Peak as we walk along the tree lines. After descending from the ridge for over an hour, we will reach Pisang village. We will visit the local monastery and climb to the upper Pisang to enjoy the view of the Annapurna Range. Stay overnight at Upper Pisang.

After an early morning breakfast, we will leave Pisang and walk through dense pine forest. The Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail ascends along the northern side of the Marshyangdi River. We will enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains as we walk through the dense rhododendron forest. Then, we will climb up to exposed ridges. The trail takes us to Humde village, a small traditional settlement, and its small air strip. It is a good spot to take a rest. The trail then takes us uphill to Ghyaru village. The village sits on a ridge, offering a gorgeous view of the mountain panoramas and surrounding valleys. Mount Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Gangapurna, Tilicho Peak, Chulu East Peak, and Pisang Peak come into our view.

From Ghyaru, we will continue moving forward and reach Barga. Depending on the time, we will visit Braga Monastery, where we can see the thangka and paintings. The ACT route begins to descend for a short while before once again ascending gently. We can notice that the lush forest gradually changes into an alpine meadow. The landscape gradually transitions into high-altitude terrain as we approach Manang. It will be our overnight stop for the next two nights.

Today is the acclimatization day. We will utilize this day to take a stroll around Manang. Manang is a large village comprising more than 500 houses. We can see traditional stone houses with prayer flags. It is also the district headquarters and has a decent number of teahouses, restaurants, and shops. Manang offers unobstructed views of Annapurna II Mountain, Annapurna III Mountain (7,555 meters), Gangapurna Peak (7,454 meters), Tilicho Peak (7,132 meters), Chulu West Peak (6,583 meters), and Chulu East Peak (6,059 meters). There is also the Himalayan Rescue Association in Manang, where we can take a short visit. Stay overnight in Manang.

With an acclimatization day at Manang, we are ready to resume our Annapurna Circuit Trek. The trail begins to ascend along the Marshyangdi River’s northern edge. As we trek past settlements along the route, we see a strong influence of Tibetan Buddhism. The landscape is mostly alpine with sparse vegetation. We will continue to climb uphill on a dirt and stone path.
En route, we will come across yaks grazing on green pastures. The views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak are clearly visible during the journey. After trekking for some time, we will pass by villages such as Tanki and Ghungsang. The ACT trail continues to go uphill through rocky sections and stone paths. After ascending for some time, we will trek past a row of mani walls to reach Yak Kharka. We will rest at the village overnight.

It is going to be a relatively short trek today. We will leave Yak Kharka after breakfast, walking by green yak pastures. The Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail on this day is mostly gentle at the beginning, with a wide and well-worn path. After a while, it gradually begins to climb towards Ledar. We will trek on loose moraine slopes and uneven stone terraces. The landscape also gradually becomes more barren with sparse vegetation. As we will gain altitude, we will also notice the air becoming thinner. 

From Ledar, we will start following the east bank of Jarsang Khola. The trail also becomes flatter and steadier from here onwards. Similarly, the views of the Damodar Himal and Annapurna ranges open up before us. Along the way, we will pass by Deurali village. The final stretch of the trail from here to Thorong Phedi goes straight up. It is a steep climb on loose rocky terrain. Thorong Phedi is located on an open ridge within a high-alpine bowl. So, expect high wind exposure. Stay overnight at Thorong Phedi.

Today is the peak and most challenging day of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. We will finally climb to the high mountain pass of Thorong La Pass. We will start our trek early, before sunrise. After a quick tea, the porters will arrange packing, and then we will gradually climb on a steep slope to reach the Thorong High Camp (4,925 meters). The winding trail is narrow, windy, and cold. Additionally, the thin air makes the ascent demanding. Therefore, it is crucial to take slow, steady strides. From the high camp, we can enjoy a beautiful sunrise amidst Mount Annapurna and Gangapurna. 

The trail from High Camp continues to ascend. We must gradually climb through barren and high-alpine terrain. Along the way, we will cross wide scree fields. During early spring and late autumn, there can be snow patches here and there. There are also stone cairns on the path guiding us the way. The final stretch to the top of the Thorong La Pass is slightly steeper. Finally, a famous signboard and colorful prayer flags will signal that we have reached the top. It treats us with gorgeous views of the Annapurna ranges, Chulu East Peak, Chulu West Peak, Dhaulagiri, and the arid landscapes of Upper Mustang. 

After conquering the Thorong La Pass, we will make a long and steep descent. It is less challenging than ascending, but it remains demanding nonetheless. After descending, we will trek on the barren landscape of Mustang. It also gets easier, and the path widens up into Muktinath Valley. There is also a shift in the scenery, and we will pass by Buddhist chortens and prayer wheels to reach Muktinath. We will stay overnight here.

Muktinath is a holy temple, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. The word “Muktinath” means the Lord of Salvation. We will take a visit to the temple and explore the premises. There is a main temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, as well as 108 water spouts. Devotees believe that bathing under the water spouts cleanses one’s sins. There is also a Jwala Mai temple where fire burns eternally. After visiting Muktinath, we will begin our descent on a board trail. Along the way, we will come across many Buddhist monasteries and chortens. The descent of the Annapurna Circuit Trekking trail then takes us to Jharkot. It is home to a red-walled Tibetan-style monastery.

The trail continues to descend, passing by stone houses and terraced fields. Soon we will reach Khingar village. From Khingar village, the path becomes flatter and goes alongside the Kali Gandaki River bed. Finally, we will reach Kagbeni, the “gateway to Upper Mustang.” It is a traditional Tibetan-style village with mud-brick houses, chortens, and prayer flags. We will visit Kag Chode Thupten Samphel Ling Monastery and spend the night in Kagbeni.

After an early morning tea and breakfast, we will take a jeep drive to Tatopani via Jomsom. There is a good roadway connecting the two villages and the surrounding places. Thus, it is better to drive and save time. The jeep follows the Kali Gandaki River to the south. We will drive through wide river valleys while enjoying the surrounding scenery and mountain views. It will be a bumpy and thrilling ride to Jomsom. 

Jomsom is the headquarters of the Mustang region, which has an airstrip located above the Kaligandaki River. It was one of the major trade posts of the ancient trade route used by locals to trade with neighbouring Tibetans. Leaving Jomsom, we will follow the drive along the Kali Gandaki River and mountains. En route, we will pass through the apple orchards near Marpha village. In a couple of hours, we will reach Tatopani (Hot Spring). Like the name, there are natural hot springs in the village. We can enjoy dipping in the hot springs and relaxing our tired muscles. Stay overnight in Tatopani in a guesthouse.

From Tatopani, we will again start trekking. The trekking route goes north from here onwards. We will trek on a well-worn dirt path. Similarly, the landscape around us becomes lush with subtropical forests. We will trek through the green forest and bamboo groves. Along the way, we will come across the beautiful Gurung and Magar terrace villages. We can also see riverside cliffs and vistas of the Annapurna ranges. 

After trekking for an hour, we will reach the Ghorepani trail junction. From here, we will leave the river valley and start trekking through dense forest. The trail also ascends uphill, but nothing too demanding. We will pass Birethanti village, and the trail opens into more exposed ridges. From here, we can enjoy panoramic views of Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli. Finally, we will reach Shikha Danda, where we will spend the night. 

We will enjoy a hearty breakfast in the serene atmosphere of Shikha Danda. Then, we will start our trek with a gentle uphill climb. Along the way, we will come across many small traditional villages like Chitre and terrace farms. We will mostly trek on forest paths, mixed with stone staircases. There are some occasional flat sections.

Throughout the trek, the stunning sight of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges will greet us. Finally, we will reach Ghorepani, another charming Magar village. There are many stone houses, cozy teahouses, and lodges. Ghorepani is the gateway to the famous Poon Hill Viewpoint. Tonight we will rest here.

We will prepare for the trek quite early in the morning, as we do not want to miss the opportunity of capturing the sunrise view from Poon Hill. A 40-minute walk uphill from Ghorepani will take us to the iconic viewpoint. We will follow the scenic path through the rhododendron forest. The name Poon Hill originates from the Pun ethnic communities who reside in the area. We will enjoy the panoramic views of the far western Himalaya of over 600km of range, including Dhaulagiri Mountain, Tukuche Peak, Dhampus, Nilgiri Peak, Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Hiunchuli Peak, Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, and other surrounding peaks. We will return to Ghorepani for breakfast. 

Then, we will leave Ghorepani and begin with a gentle descent through lush rhododendron and oak forests. We will pass by the Deurali village and continue trekking through the forest trail. Along the way, the route passes by a few open ridges, small villages, and terraced fields. There are gradual up as well as down climbing sections. As we approach Tadapani, the forest trail becomes narrower. We must also climb stone staircases to reach the ridge where the beautiful village is situated. Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains from here. Stay overnight in Tadapani in a local teahouse.

Today is our final trekking day. We will enjoy breakfast while taking in the mountain views and tranquil atmosphere in Tadapani. Then, we will start with a gentle downhill trek through forests of rhododendron and pine. There are also occasional stone staircases along the way. As we descend, we will pass by many small villages and terrace farms. Similarly, we can also come across small streams and waterfalls. The stunning view of the Annapurna ranges also follows us. 

Finally, we will reach Ghandruk. It is one of the largest Gurung villages of the Annapurna region. There are many well-facilitated teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses. It is the best place to immerse oneself in the culture and tradition of the Gurung community. They also have an interesting history of serving the British Gurkha and Indian Gurkha Army. Almost every house in the village has at least one male member who served or is serving in the army. 

After lunch in Ghandruk, we take a jeep to the beautiful city of Pokhara. We will drive on a narrow and winding mountain road. It is a scenic drive past beautiful countryside, rivers, and rolling green hills. In the evening, we can explore around the Lakeside area of Pokhara. There are many shops and restaurants offering both international and authentic Nepalese cuisine, as well as pubs, in the area. We will stay overnight in Pokhara.

We will drive to Pokhara Airport in the afternoon. A scenic flight from Pokhara will take us to Kathmandu. We will then transfer you to your hotel. With the spare time, you can rest at the hotel or explore around the city on your own. 

You can visit the Thamel area, which is a popular tourist hub. There are numerous shops, where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs to take back home. In the evening, we will host a farewell dinner to celebrate the success of the trek. If you wish to join any other adventure or tour in Nepal, we can make arrangements for you. Stay overnight at the hotel.

We will transfer you to the Tribhuvan International Airport as per your scheduled flight for your onward destination. We wish you a safe journey and look forward to seeing you soon. Thank you for choosing Dream Himalaya Adventures for your dream trek in Nepal.