Annapurna Circuit Trek

We start early with breakfast before boarding a bus from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule, an 8-hour (200km) drive. The journey takes us out of the Kathmandu Valley, following the Trishuli River to Besisahar and finally Bhulbhule beside the Marsyangdi River. Along the way, enjoy views of terraced farms, traditional villages, and the snowy peaks of Ganesh and Manaslu. Upon arrival, we register our trek permits at the check post before settling in.

After breakfast, we begin our 5-hour trek (16km) along the Marsyangdi River. The trail passes through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages. We'll take a relaxing lunch break along the way before reaching Jagat, a quiet village that was once an important trading post. The highest point today is 1,300m at Jagat.

Today's 5-hour trek (15km) starts with a walk along the Marsyangdi River, followed by a steep climb to Tal village - the gateway to Manang. Here, you'll see waterfalls flowing down to sandy riverbanks. The trail continues through fields of barley, rice, and potatoes before reaching Kodo, one of Manang's largest villages. After crossing a suspension bridge and climbing a stone Kani (archway), we arrive at Dharapani (1,860m), our stop for the night.

Today's 6-hour trek (15.5km) takes us gradually higher along the Marsyangdi River valley. We'll pass through pine forests and traditional villages, with the trail offering our first clear views of towering Himalayan peaks. The path includes some ups and downs as we make our way to Chame, the administrative capital of Manang district. At 2,610m, Chame is our highest point reached so far, where we'll spend the night surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.

Today's 5-6 hour trek (13.2km) begins with a walk through a narrow valley where we'll see the impressive Paungda Danda Rock - a sacred 1,500m tall cliff rising from the Marsyangdi River. Along the trail, enjoy clear views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. The path then descends to the Manang Valley floor, leading us to Pisang village where we'll spend the night at 3,300m altitude.

Today's 5-6 hour trek (17km) takes us along upper trails through Geru village, offering spectacular views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. As we climb higher, the air becomes colder and drier. The route passes Tibetan-style settlements where we experience local Buddhist culture, including a visit to Barge Monastery - Manang's largest. The path is lined with Buddhist shrines before we finally reach Manang Bazaar (3,540m), a popular stop for trekkers with shops and lodges.

Today is our rest day for acclimatization, but we'll stay active. In the morning, we'll visit Gangapurna Lake and Ice Lake. The rest of the day will be spent enjoying stunning views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu peaks. In the afternoon, we may visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraja village to learn about altitude sickness - its symptoms and how to prevent it.

After resting in Manang, we begin our 4-5 hour trek (9.1km) to Ledar. First, we cross a stream and climb to Tenki village, then leave the Marshyangdi Valley for the Jar Sang Khola Valley. The trail gradually ascends through juniper forests and pastures. We pass Gunsang village with its distinctive flat mud roofs and see grazing yaks and horses. After crossing a wooden bridge over a small river, we reach Yak Kharka's peaceful meadows before arriving at the quiet Ledar hamlet (4,250m).

Today's 4-5 hour trek (7.3km) takes us higher toward Thorong High Camp. From Ledar, we climb a ridge, descend to cross the Marsyangdi River on a wooden bridge, then ascend again along a narrow trail to Thorong Phedi. The landscape becomes more rugged and barren compared to the lush lower valleys. After Thorong Phedi, we make our final climb to Thorong High Camp (4,925m). Along the way, we might spot yak herds and blue sheep in this dramatic, high-altitude terrain.

Today is the toughest but most rewarding day - a 9-hour trek (15.6km) crossing Thorong La Pass (5,416m), the highest point of our trek. We start before dawn, climbing through cold, thin air to reach the pass where breathtaking 360° views await - the Annapurna range behind us and Tibetan peaks ahead. After celebrating at the top, we descend to sacred Muktinath (3,760m). This holy site features 108 water spouts and an eternal flame that's burned for 2,000 years. Buddhists call it Chumig Gyatsa ("Hundred Waters")

After visiting Muktinath Temple in the morning, we take a 3-4 hour (113km) local bus ride to Tatopani. The bumpy journey takes us through dramatic gorges as we descend from dry highlands to green forests. Tatopani ("Hot Water" in Nepali) welcomes us with its famous natural hot springs - perfect for soaking tired muscles. Locals believe these mineral-rich waters can heal skin problems, making this a relaxing and therapeutic stop.

Today's 6-7 hour trek (17km) takes us east across the Kali Gandaki River, climbing through Thakali villages (Sikha and Chitre) to Ghorepani. We pass terraced farms and walk through lush forests of rhododendron, birch and magnolia with mountain views throughout. Our day ends at Ghorepani (2,860m), a charming village perched on a ridge where we'll spend the night.

We wake early for a magical sunrise hike to Poon Hill (3,210m) - the perfect finale to our trek. The panoramic views showcase the entire Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, including iconic Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak. After capturing unforgettable photos, we return to Ghorepani for breakfast. Then we trek 4-5 hours (12.5km) downhill to Tikhedhunga (1,570m), where a 2-hour drive takes us to Nayapul and onward to Pokhara.

After breakfast in Pokhara, we take a 6-7 hour (200km) scenic drive back to Kathmandu along the Marsyangdi and Trishuli rivers. This concludes our Annapurna Circuit adventure. For those preferring a quicker option, a 25-minute flight to Kathmandu is available (at additional cost). Our trek package officially ends upon arrival in Kathmandu.

Final Departure from Nepal to your country with wonderful memories and relaxation.