Annapurna Circle Trek - 14 Days

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)

Upon our arrival in the Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, we will be greeted by a representative from Himalayan Traverse who will drop us off at our hotel. We may also stroll in the streets of Thamel, a tourist hub in Kathmandu for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner hosted by HimalayanTraverse. During our dinner, we will enjoy excellent traditional Nepalese cuisine.

Included meals:Dinner

Day 02: Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation

After breakfast, we begin a guided tour of some of Kathmandu's most historic and spiritual sites. Some of these places are recognized as World Heritage Sites, like the historic Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous Monkey Temple (Swayambhunath), and the large Buddhist shrine (Bouddhanath), which is one of the biggest stupas in the world. At noon, there is a meeting before the trip starts where we can meet our trek leader and the rest of the team. Himalayan Traverse gives us an overview of the trek and also allows us to ask any questions we might have about the upcoming journey. We spend the night in Kathmandu.

Included meals: Breakfast.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1100m/3608 ft): 8 - 10 hours

We start our early morning drive toward Syange, taking in the picturesque Nepalese countryside along the way. Rolling green hills, winding rivers, terraced farmlands, and the majestic Himalayan peaks provide a stunning backdrop throughout the journey. We spend the night in Syange.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 04: Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft): 7 - 8 hours

After crossing a big bridge near Tal, we enter Manang district. The path goes through fields where barley, rice, and potatoes are grown. Waterfalls are still around us as we walk. We go through the village of Kodo and then reach Dharapani, which is one of the largest villages in the Manang valley. We spend the night in Dharapani.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 05: Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft): 5 - 6 hours

Today’s trek takes us over a few steep, forested ridges and past several landslide-prone areas on our way to Chame. As we hike, we are treated to breathtaking views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Along the trail, we also encounter small hot springs, perfect for a brief moment of relaxation. We spend the night in Chame.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 06: Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft): 5 - 6 hours

We trek through a steep, narrow valley to reach our first view of the impressive Paungda Danda rock face, a striking curved cliff rising 1,500 meters above the river. From this vantage point, we also enjoy spectacular views of Annapurna II to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Continuing onward, we descend to the floor of the Manang Valley, taking in the captivating landscape along the way. We spend the night in Pisang.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07: Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft): 6 - 7 hours

From Pisang, there are two routes to reach Manang. We take the path that passes through Upper Pisang via Geru, offering spectacular views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and the surrounding peaks. As we approach Manang, the climate becomes colder and drier, but a brief visit to Barge Monastery, the largest monastery in the Manang District, provides a refreshing cultural experience. We spend the night in Manang.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 08: Manang: Acclimatization day

To help our bodies acclimatize for the upcoming trails, we spend the day on a short hike to either Bhojo Gumba or Gangapurna Lake. For those with extra energy, an extended hike to Vraga Village allows a visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association, providing valuable insights into Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). We return to Manang for an overnight stay.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 09: Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft): 3 - 4 hours

From Manang village, the trail first crosses a stream and climbs to the village of Tenki, located above Manang. It then continues ascending out of the Marshyangdi Valley, turning northwest along the Jarsang Khola valley. The path follows the valley northward, passing a few pastures and patches of juniper trees while steadily gaining elevation. Along the way, we pass near the small village of Ghunsa, a cluster of flat mud-roofed houses just below the trailhead. The trail then leads through open meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river via a wooden bridge, we encounter an ancient Mani wall in a scenic meadow, before reaching the small village of Yak Kharka. A gradual ascent is maintained throughout the day to help prevent altitude-related issues.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi: (4420m/14501ft): 3-4 hours

Today’s trek is an uphill climb to Thorang Phedi. Along the way, we cross a suspension bridge and arrive at Ledar village. Continuing our ascent, we pass towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the final village before Thorong La. The journey rewards us with spectacular views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak, and Mt. Khatungkan. We spend the night in Thorang Phedi.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Trek to Thorong La (5416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) then drive to Jomsom: 7 - 8 hours trek, 1 hour drive

Today’s highlight is crossing Thorong La, one of the highest mountain passes in the world. We tackle the pass from east to west, traveling from Manang to Muktinath, which is considered the safest and easiest direction. Rising around 3 a.m., we begin our early morning climb. Upon reaching the summit, the breathtaking views make the effort truly worthwhile, and we take some time for photos before descending to the Muktinath Valley at the base of the pass. From there, we drive to Jomsom, a picturesque Himalayan village renowned for its delicious apples, where we spend the night.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara: 25 minutes

Today we fly to Pokhara, the lake city in the earliest possible airplane. After checking-in at our hotel, we may take a rest or visit the Lakeside area in the vicinity of the Fewa Lake. Here, we can indulge in buying some souvenirs or sampling some local delicacies. Overnight in Pokhara.

Included meals:Breakfast

Day 13: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 5-6 hours

After breakfast, we bid farewell to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and drive back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free for relaxation or personal activities. In the evening, Himalayan Traverse hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate the successful completion of our journey.

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14:  Final departure

Our adventure in Nepal officially ends today! A representative from Himalayan Traverse will accompany us to the airport about 3 hours before our flight.

Included meal: Breakfast.

(Note: Booking must be confirmed 6 months before in advance)