Annapurna Circuit Trek is a popular trekking destination in Nepal that offers a unique experience that combines stunning mountain scenery, vibrant cultural encounters and rich biodiversity throughout the trek. This trek follows a circuitous route around the Annapurna Himalayas, passing through a variety of landscapes including lush forests, picturesque villages, deep gorges and alpine passes. Let’s embark on this remarkable adventure and discover the wonders of the Annapurna circuit.
• Magnificent mountain views: The Annapurna Circuit Trek offers unparalleled views of some of the highest mountains in the world. On this trek, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Annapurna mountain range, including Dhaulagiri (8,167 m), the seventh highest peak in the world, and Manaslu (8,157 m), the eighth highest peak in the world.You will also have the opportunity to see Annapurna II (7993m), Annapurna III (7373m), Gangapurna (7000m), Tilicho (7243m) and other peaks such as Pisang Peak and Chulu Mountain. The sight of these snowy giants against the clear blue sky is truly breathtaking.
• Diverse Landscape and Cultural Immersion: One of the exciting aspects of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the variety of landscapes encountered along the way. As the altitude increases, the valley gradually widens and the terrain becomes more rugged and barren, creating an otherworldly atmosphere similar to the fabled Shangri-La. Below 4000m, however, the trail winds through lush forests and fantastic valleys that contrast sharply with the landscape above.
This trek also offers cultural immersion as you pass through traditional villages inhabited by different ethnic communities such as Gurung, Takalis and Manangis. Over the centuries, these communities have preserved their unique traditions, architecture and farming methods. You can visit ancient monasteries and temples, where you will witness the spiritual rituals and customs of the local population. This cultural exploration adds depth and richness to the walking experience.
Highlights of the trip:
- Explore the arid lands of Nepal:
- Experience the unique beauty of the arid landscape on the Annapurna Circuit Trek.
- See the contrast between the lush greenery in the areas below and the dry, desert-like terrain on the higher floors.
2.Hike through the Valley of the Winds:
- Travel through the stunning and windy valleys of the Annapurna region surrounded by towering mountains.
- Feel the thrill of walking in the fresh air and listening to the sound of the wind blowing through the valley.
3.Visit Muktinath Temple:
- Visit the Muktinath Temple, one of the most revered and sacred temples in Nepal.
- Enjoy the spiritual atmosphere of this pilgrimage site, considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists.
- Crossing Throng-La (5,416m/17,764ft), the highest mountain pass in the world:
- Challenge yourself by crossing the Throng-La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trek.
- Admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and get a sense of accomplishment when you reach the pass.
5.Explore high-altitude lakes and alpine wildlife:
- Admire the beauty of high-altitude lakes on a hike.
- Keep an eye out for the migratory mountain birds that inhabit these pristine lakes and add to the natural beauty.
- Visit centuries-old monasteries and temples:
- Immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage by visiting ancient monasteries and temples.
- Gain an insight into the spiritual practices and traditions of the local communities during the trip.
7.Admire the world’s highest mountains:
- Access some of the highest mountains in the world including Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, Annapurna and more.
- Take in the breathtaking beauty and majesty of these jagged peaks that dominate the horizon.
8.Enjoy contrasting climates and landscapes:
- Experience a variety of climate zones and landscapes, from low-altitude treks with lush forests and rice terraces to high altitudes reminiscent of arctic landscapes.
- Cover a variety of ecosystems from tropical vegetation to barren alpine terrain as you traverse the Annapurna Circuit.
- Enjoy a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar and a jeep ride to Cham:
- Start your journey by driving from Kathmandu to Besi Sahar and admire the picturesque scenery of Nepal.
- Continue your adventure from Besisahar to Chame with an exciting jeep tour that allows you to admire the rugged beauty of the region.
Maximum altitude: 4450m
Accommodation: Tea house run by local people
Food: Local Nepali, Italic, continental, Indian, Chinese food cooked by local cooks.
Trekking route: Trekking through the local village, ridge faced with White Mountain, canopy, deciduous, coniferous, up and down hill.
Duration: 17 days
Day 1: Arrival Kathmandu (1300m/4264ft) On arrival in Kathmandu
You will be warmly welcomed by the Nepalese and transferred to your hotel. Take time to relax and explore this bustling capital known for its cultural and historical monuments.
Day 2 Kathmandu: Excursions and Preparation for Trekking
Spend the day exploring Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupas. In the afternoon, you will attend a hike briefing and preparation session where you can gather basic information about the trip and make the necessary preparations.
Day 3 Drive to Bulbule (800 m/2624 ft)
7-8 hours drive early in the morning from Kathmandu, you arrive at Bulbule, the starting point of the tour. The drive will take you through lush subtropical forests, charming villages and traditional agricultural terraces.
Day 4 Bulbule to Jagat (1300m/4265ft)
You will hike through rice terraces . This walk offers a wonderful view of the Marjandi River and its surrounding lush greenery. You will pass through picturesque villages where you can interact with friendly locals and learn about their traditional way of life. Finally you reach Jagat, a small village with a cozy atmosphere.
Day 6 Jagata to Dharapani (1960 m/6430 ft)
Continuing on, the trail leads through beautiful rhododendron and bamboo forests. The trail gradually rises and offers wonderful views of the Marjandi Valley and the mountains beyond. Located at the confluence of the Marsyangdi and DudhKhola rivers, Dharapani is a bustling village with traditional stone houses and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Day 7 Dharapani to Chame (2710 m/8891 ft): 5-6 hours
Today’s hike will take you through dense pine and spruce forests accompanied by the enchanting sounds of the Marsjandi River. Approaching Chame, the landscape changes to drier, rocky terrain. Chame is the headquarters of the Manang district and offers a magnificent view of the Annapurna and Lamjung Himalayan mountains.
Day 8 Chame to Pisang (3300m/10824ft): 5-6 hours
As you leave Cham, you will hike along steep and narrow trails with dramatic changes in scenery. Dense forests give way to a barren landscape surrounded by high mountains. Pisang is a picturesque village with a unique blend of Tibetan and Nepali cultures. The village offers panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain range and a chance to experience the local way of life.
Day 9 Pisang-Manang: 6-7 hours
If you continue your trek, you will pass Upper Pisang, a village decorated with prayer wheels and an old monastery. The trail offers fantastic views of Annapurna II and the surrounding peaks. When you reach Manang, you will see a charming village nestled in the mountains. This is a very important acclimatization day where you will have the opportunity to get to know the village and its cultural heritage.
Day 10 Manang: Acclimatization day
Today is rest day, which allows the body to adjust to the high altitude. Take a short hike to nearby attractions or explore the village. Mananga is famous for its ancient monasteries, such as the Braga Monastery, where you can enjoy the silence and witness the daily rituals of the monks.
Manang to Yakharka (4,110m/13,484ft): 3-4 hours
After a day of rest, you will continue your trek to Jakharka. The trail offers stunning views of the Annapurna range and the majestic landscape ahead. As you climb higher, you will notice a change in vegetation as the forests will be replaced by Alpine meadows. The yak herder Yak Kaka offers a peaceful retreat amid the rugged mountain landscape.
Day 11 Yak Kharka to ThorongPhedi (4,600 m/15,092 ft): 3-4 hours
Today’s trek is relatively short as you head to ThorongPhedi, the base camp for the challenging Thorong La pass. The path leads you through rocky terrain with a fantastic view of the surrounding peaks. When you reach ThorongPhedi, you will be surrounded by towering mountains, leaving you in awe and looking forward to the next day’s adventure.
Day 12 ThorongPhedi to Muktinath (3800m/12467ft) via Thorong La Pass (5416m/17764ft): 7-8 hours
Today was the most challenging and rewarding day of this trek. You will start early in the morning to cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. The hill is steep and you feel the effects of the high altitude as you climb up. But the amazing view of the surrounding peaks and the sense of accomplishment made it all worth it. As we reach the pass, prayer flags flutter in the wind, marking this auspicious spot. From here proceed to Muktinath, a Hindu and Buddhist holy site known for its ancient temples and natural beauty.
Day 13 Muktinath to Marfa (2670 m/8760 ft): 4-5 hours
Leaving Muktinath, you pass through the arid land of Mustang. The trail offers a panoramic view of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri mountain. Visit the ancient monasteries and experience the unique culture of the area as you walk through the village of Jakot. You continue when you reach Marfa, a charming village known for its apple orchards and traditional white houses. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the local apple brandy and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful village.
Day 14 Marfa to Kalopani (2530m/8300ft): 5-6 hours
Today’s trek will take you through picturesque villages and lush green forests. You will pass through Tucce, known for its traditional Takali architecture and cultural heritage. This walk offers stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, creating a stunning backdrop to your journey. Located on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River and surrounded by majestic mountains, Kalopani is a peaceful retreat.
Kalopani to Tatopani (1200m/3937ft): 6-7 hours
Leaving Kalopani, you will continue into the Kali Gandaki Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. The trail leads through rice terraces, charming villages and lush forests. You will also pass through the village of Gaza, known for its Takali culture and hospitality. As you continue down, the climate becomes warmer and more tropical. Finally, you arrive at Tatopani, famous for its natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate your tired muscles.
Day 16 Tatopani to Ghorepani (2850m/9350ft): 7-8 hours
Today’s trek is a difficult uphill one that leads to Ghorepani on the way. The trail passes through dense rhododendron forests, offering stunning views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. On reaching Gorepani, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Fishtail Peak. Ghorepani is a vibrant village with cozy tea houses, a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani (2700m/8860ft): 6-7 hrs
On this day, you will wake up before dawn and trek to Mount Poon, one of the most famous places in the Annapurna region. The climb is worth it as you watch the sunrise over the Himalayas, painting the sky orange and pink. Enjoy panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including peaks such as Annapurna One, Annapurna South and the Nilgiris, from the observation deck. After admiring the breathtaking scenery, return to Gorapani for breakfast before continuing your trek to Tadapani. The trail goes through a beautiful rhododendron forest and if you hike in the spring you will see colorful flowers. With stunning views of Annapurna and Machhapuchhre, Tadapani offers a peaceful nighttime environment.
Day 18 Tadapani to Pokhara via Gandruk (827m/2789ft): 5-6 hours on foot, 1 hour by car
Leaving Tadapani, you pass through lush forests and rice terraces. The trail passes through the picturesque village of Gandruk, known for its traditional houses and rich cultural heritage. You can explore the village, visit the local museum and interact with friendly locals. From Gandruk, take a scenic drive to Pokhara, a popular tourist destination and gateway to the Annapurna region. In Pokhara, relax on the banks of a beautiful lake, enjoy the lively atmosphere and reflect on your incredible journey on the Annapurna Circuit.
Day 21 Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, you will take a scenic drive back to Kathmandu where you will conclude your Annapurna Circuit trek. On the way you can enjoy the picturesque nature, landscapes and terraced fields. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you will spend the rest of the day relaxing, shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city’s bustling streets.
Day 20 Final departure
On the last day of your trip, you will say goodbye to Nepal and head to the airport to continue your journey. The memories of the Annapurna circuit trek, breathtaking mountain views, cultural encounters and a sense of achievement will stay with you for life.
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