The Annapurna Circuit Trek (21 Days)

Attractions

  • Aesthetic views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri.
  • Highest Pass in the Annapurna range.
  • Ethnic and Culture Diversity.

OVERVIEW

A Beautiful Challenge

We drive from Kathmandu to the starting point at Khudi where the early stages of the trek take us through rice farms, forests and friendly villages.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular classic treks in the world. The trek gives us a stunning view of Annapurna. Starting from 800 meters the trek reaches a high altitude of 5,416 meters via many diverse geographical and cultural features and an amazing range of flora and fauna

The Circuit circumnavigates the entire Annapurna massif reaching its Zenith at the Thorong La Pass (5,416m/17,769ft) proceeding down to the Hindu pilgrimage site of Muktinath and the Kali Gandaki valley, the world’s deepest river gorge. There are fabulous Mountain Views of the Annapurna range and you will meet the Gurung and Thakali communities giving you an insight into many fascinating features of Nepalese culture, it is a wonderfully unique experience.

Why we love it ?

Guest House

Mountain view

Camping

Hiking

Dining

Itinerary

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

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Apoorva tours who will welcome you with Khada/garland (this is a welcoming Culture in Nepal). We will then drive you to your hotel and get you booked in so you can unwind from your travels, rest and relax. Later we will show you around the popular for tourist area that is the Thamel District where you will find all the services you require including restaurants, supermarkets ATM machines and money exchange facilities. In addition if you have forgotten anything you may need on the trip you will have an opportunity to buy it now.

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Day 2: Kathmandu valley sightseeing and trek preparation (1,300m/4,264ft)

Visting the places around Kathamndu like Religious Pashupatinath, Bouddha, SwayambhunathAfter breakfast you will be given a fascinating sightseeing tour where you will see many sites of interest, for example:The Boudhanath Stupa – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the holiest Tibetan Buddhist Temple outside Tibet. It is over 328ft (100m) diameter and wall-to-wall length is about the size of football pitch. Boudhanath is among the largest Stupa in Nepal and one of the largest in the world. The Stupa has 4 eyes which represent the all-seeing ability of the Buddha; they face four prime directions constantly looking out for virtuous behaviour and human success. The Stupa’s nose symbolizes Nirvana.
The Pashupatinath Temple – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an Elegant and highly decorative Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Temple sits on the banks of Bagmati River and is noteworthy for its pagoda style of architecture and its gilded roof. The rafters feature members of Shiva’s family and its silver plated entrance doors are bordered by statues of deities. Entrance is restricted to Hindus but its exterior is remarkable and well worth the visit. Outside you will see many holy men (Sadhus), and the river banks are a popular place for Hindu cremations. It is one of the most important Temples for Hindu devotees worldwide. During February or March, the day of Maha Shivaratri (an annual festival dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva) is celebrated here.
The Swayambhunath – is an ancient religious site; it is an important Temple for Buddhists and Hindus and is home to many shrines. This Stupa is the oldest of its kind in Nepal and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises and may date back to 460 A.D. It is often simply referred to as the Monkey Temple as it is home to colonies of monkeys, and also perhaps because Swayambhunath is difficult to pronounce?Overnight stay in your Hotel

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Day 3: Drive Kathmandu to Beshishahar (830m/2,723ft), 6-7hrs

Besisahar is about 6 hours drive from Kathmandu.We set off along the Prithvi Highway from the Kathmandu valley. The road descends to the Trisuli River and our route follows the river until its junction with the Marsyangdi River. We then follow the Marsyandi along through terraced fields and scenic hillside villages. From Pokhara it is about a further 1.5 to 2 hrs to drive to Beshishahar. During this drive you will gain a good insight into the lifestyle of the villagers. In the evening you will have an opportunity to explore the area around BeshishaharOn arrival at Beshishahar we will check into the local lodge where we will be staying tonight

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Day 4: Trek Beshishahar to Bahundanda (1,310m/4,298ft)

We set off on a relatively flat trail along the banks of the Marshyangdi River. This is our first full day of trekking and we can now start to enjoy the main purpose of our visit amongst the grandeur of the snow capped mountains and the lifestyle of the local Gurung community.We will take lunch after about 3 hours of walking and thence we will face a steep climb towards Bahundanda. As we ascend we will become increasingly aware of the magnificence of our surroundings.At Bahundanda we will check into the local lodge where we will be staying tonight.

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Day 5: Trek Bahundanda to Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft), 5-6hrs

The Trek from Bahundanda to Chamje takes between five and six hours.The trail today starts off downhill and then levels out as we stride through the rice terraces. We eventually encounter a small waterfall at which point we will cross a stream. The trail now climbs as we traverse around edge of the mountain before reaching Lali Gaon.
We follow the Marsyangdi valley which is a characteristic example of a V-shape river cut valley, and then follow the twisting mountain trail downhill to Syange at 1,089 m (3,573ft). It is worth watching out for a gorgeous waterfall above the village. The next section of the trail is cut into the steep side of the mountain and climbs high above the riverbed before descending to the village of Jagat which lies at 1,300m (4,265ft).The village is located on a shelf above the Marsyangdi valley. From here we follow a more undulating route through forests before we arrive at our destination of Chamje.
At Chamje we will check into the local lodge where we will be staying tonight.

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Day 6: Trek Chamje to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft), 5-6hrs

Our trek today takes us through phenomenal scenery and spectacular zigzag mountain routes. Our first port of call is the village of Sattale at an elevation of 997 m (3,271 ft). The trail initially drops down to the river and crosses a suspension bridge after which there is an interestingly steep and breathtaking climb to Sattale.The path continues to rise and fall as it tracks above the river which is eventually hidden from view by fallen rocks. As we arrive at the top of the hill we encounter a relatively level area and we descend to a verdant riverbank on our approach to the picturesque village of Tal which has a number of teahouses and lodges.
Moving on we follow the trail through a narrow valley to the village of Karte at 1,900m (6,234ft). The trail becomes a steep and winding climb on a track carved from the rock face itself. We now descend to the river and cross on suspension bridge then face a short climb until we arrive at our destination of Dharapani at an elevation of 1,960m (6,430ft),The approach to Dharapani is marked by a stone chorten-shaped arch gateway (kani).
We will be staying here tonight.

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Day 7: Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft)

As we leave the village we wander through fields and follow the river. On the opposite bank there is a confluence with he Dudh Khola flowing down from the south face of Mt Manaslu Manaslu which at 8,163 m (26,781ft) is the world’s eighth-highest mountain. The name “Manaslu” means “mountain of the spirit”.
We now continue to Bagarchhap which is a typical Buddhist village with a monastery and all of the religious adornments one would expect to find.
There are spectacular Himalayan mountain views from here including the majestic Annapurna II.
We now face a climb through a wooded area up to forests Danaque at 2,210m (7,251 ft). We now cross a small timber bridge and start a climb up to the village of Timang. The trail now flattens out until we reach Chame.Chame is the headquarters of Manang District which has the lowest population of any district in Nepal.
It is a good place for trekkers to take stock and replenish any equipment they may need for the remainder of the trek. There are a number of well stocked shops and it has more facilities than virtually any other calling point on the route.
The local population comprises various ethnic groups including Brahmins and Gurungs.

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Day 8: Trek Chame to Pisang (3,200m/10,496ft)

Today as we set off we will again be treated to spectacular views, and in particular we should catch a glistening sunrise view of Lamjung Himal at 6,893m (22,615ft)The path up the valley passes an orchard and a coniferous forest and ascends rapidly to a high elevation rock-strewn section. From here the path becomes quite interesting and precipitous as we continue to Bhratang at 2,950m (9,678ft).Bhratangs historical significance is that it was formally a Tibetan refugee village for Khampa rebel warriors who fought against Mao Tse Tung’s “People’s Liberation Army of China”Today only a few” tumble-down” buildings remain as reminders of that era.After a short climb we meet another rock-strewn section and cross a wooden bridge to a high twisting path. Eventually we cross back over the river and walk through a pine forest. Soon after this point the valley changes from its river-cut V-shape and becomes a glacial U-shaped valley.The panorama that greets us includes wonderful views of Annapurna II and Pisang Peak (6,091m/19,984ft). It is now a short haul passing a long Mani wall to village of Pisang where we will be staying tonight.

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Day 9: Trek Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)

The trek from Pisang to Manang takes about five hours. As we leave we will soon join a climb up a steep ridge from which we will be greeted by spectacular mountain views including Tilicho peak (7,145m/23,442ft) and also of the Manang valley which lies ahead. From here the trail is downhill.When we reach Manang airstrip we will be at an altitude of 3,353 m /11,000 feet are Nepal’s highest airport. The terrain becomes less undulating now and from the Sabje Khola Valley we can enjoy amazing views of Annapurna III towering high into the sky. We will also catch a glimpse of Annapurna IV.We take a small timber bridge to cross the Marsyangdi Khola to the village of Mungji. We walk past arable land and onto a mountain. Ahead Bryaga appears and we see a host of Buddhist adornment and religious symbols, there are Mani walls, flags and an impressive monastery dating back over 300 years. We now have more amazing mountain panoramas to lift our spirits. Your guide will be only too happy to point out all of the key features of this amazing location.When we arrive at Manang we will book into our lodge for our overnight stay.

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Day 10: Acclimatization day at Manang (3,500m/11,482ft)

Later on the trail we will be tackling the crossing of the Thorong La Pass which is the highest point on our route and so today we will be preparing for that climb.
It is important to acclimatise, and one of the best ways of doing this is to make a rapid ascent and descent so we recommend that you climb far above the village and you will also have a fantastic panoramic view of the Manang Valley and the Annapurna range. Another option is to take a look at the some of the other fascinating options, your guide will be happy to organise a suitable days trekking such as a visit to the Ganagapurna Glacier Lake, or if you feel less energetic you could make an interesting visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association aid post located in the villageWhen we return to Manang we will stay overnight once again in our lodge.

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Day 11: Trek Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft)

The trek from Manang to Yak Kharka takes over 4 hours and is about 10 km long. We will be gaining 510 meters and witnessing some quite dramatic mountain views. The route passes trough Ghunsang en route to Yak Kharka. From our start point at 3,500m (11,482ft) we will climb to 4,110m (13,484ft) today. The trail climbs gradually as we head for Kharka. We are now heading along trails above 3,000m high and so we are at risk of altitude sickness. Because of this it is important to progress at a steady pace. However this is not a bad thing as it will also allow us to take full advantage of the amazing mountain landscape.At Yak Kharka we will be staying overnight at a local lodge.

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Day 12: Trek Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,400m/14,432ft)

Yak Kharka literally means “yak shed” and from here we will be trekking to Thorong Phedi. Leaving Yak Kharka we will see herds of yak in the fields as we leave the village. We will then climb steadily up to a ridge before heading downhill to the river Marsyangdi.
Marsyangdi means “raging river” but during the dry season the river flow is almost non-existant. This is as a result of a series of dams and hydroelectric power schemes which have been constructed along its course. We will cross the river on a timber bridge before tackling an ascent on the opposite side.
Visible from here are a number of stunning mountains including Chulu West which is 6,419m (21059ft) high and is one of the most impressive and stunning peaks in the world.
Our route now follows an uphill scree covered trail before finally descending to Thorong Phedi.
Once we arrive at Thorong Phedi we will check into a local lodge for our overnight Stay

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Day 13: Trek Thorong Phedi to to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) via Thorong La (5,416m/17,765ft)

The Thorong La pass is a 5,416 m (17,769 feet) high altitude pass and is the highest point on the Annapurna circuit.Crossing this pass is a high point in many ways for us on this trek it is however not an easy crossing, there is always a risk of altitude sickness and adverse weather conditions so you need to follow your guides advice at all times and you will stay safe.From the outset we will have a steep uphill climb which eventually levels out somewhat before the chorten and prayer flags that mark the summit come into view.
From our vantage point we will have some absolutely breathtaking views. The Kali Gandaki Gorge lies ahead and it is the world’s deepest canyon. All around we will have dramatic views of snow capped mountains, Dhaulagiri and the Mustang range are particularly awe inspiring. Their now follows a demanding descent to Muktinath.
Finally we leave the moraines behind and have a gentler walk down the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath. The temple at Muktinath is one of the most important Hindu temples in Nepal and features pagoda-style temples and Buddhist Gompas. Muktinath is a renowned pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists and draws people from all around the world. Pilgrims come here to find spiritual renewal and tranquillity.This is our overnight rest point

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Day 14: Trek Muktinath to Marpha (2,670m/8,760ft)

We now set off on steep downhill a trail down the remarkable Kali Gandaki Gorge; we trek via Jharkot and Khingar downhill to Kagbeni which is a beautiful small village on the banks of Kali Gandaki River.
The landscape we will be passing is quite unique with occasional green vegetation along the trail and primitive villages famous for their Tibetan architecture, monasteries, lifestyle and culture. People living here follow the Tibetan way of life. Our trail now becomes more trekker friendly as we continue along the banks of the Kali Gandaki until we reach Marpha.
Marpha , which derives its name from the translation of the phrase “hard working people” has characteristic Thak Khola architecture with flat roofed buildings and narrow paved alleys. One of the most important features of the village is the Nyingma monastery. As we gaze above the monastery we will see a chorten that has been painted on the cliff edge.The village is also renowned as the apple growing capital of the district and many apple based products are made here including their famous apple brandy.We will be staying here overnight.

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Day 15: Trek Marpha to Ghasa (2,120m/6,955ft)

The valley at this point consists of green areas and forested sections. In the distance we can now see the Dhaulagiri range. We start off on a level track which passes through forested terrain until we reach Kalopani which lies between the Daulagiri and Annapurna range. From here we will have a rare view of Annapurna 1 and Tukuche peak. This region has a relatively high rainfall, one indication of this is that the flat roofs of the drier regions give way to housing with gabled roofs.When we arrive at Ghasa we will check into our lodge for our overnight stay

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Day 16: Trek Ghasa to Tatopani (1,200m/3937ft)

We set off following the trail with a rapid descent to the beautiful Rukse Chhahara Waterfalll. Todays trail is often wide and used for local transportation. We cross the Kali Gandaki River before heading towards Narchyang village.Along the way we can take in breathtaking views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche and Annapurna peaks. We pass through Kopchepani and on to Gadpar.
The trail continues down hill to Tatopani passing through a number of dwelling places. Tatopani has a population of 843 people and 182 homes. The hot spring at Tatopani is believed to wash away sins in its purifying waters. You may care to investigate!We will be staying here tonight.

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Day 17: Trek Tatopani to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft)

Today we will trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani. This is quite a tough walk as it involves a gain in elevation of 1650 m (5,413ft).Then the trail starts off steeply and passes through a number of villages populated by people of various ethic backgrounds, many of whom exist by farming the land nearby. As we cross the Kali Gandaki we will continue to benefit from spectacular mountain scenery. The Annapurna circuit is noted for its great beauty and spectacular scenery and we will certainly appreciate this at every step of the way, today will be no exception.This area is notable as a major recruiting area for the famous Gorkha Regiment.
The trail now passes through rhododendron forests as it continues uphill to Ghorepani where we will be staying tonight.

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Day 18: Poonhill and trek from Ghorepani to Tadapani (2,710m/8,891ft)

Today we will make an early start and set of before breakfast for a sunrise view from Poon Hill which is one of the most stunning views in the Himalayas. From here you can see more than 30 mountains of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges including 3 mountains above 26247ft (8,000m). The route to the summit passes through some Gurung and Magar villages and Rhododendron forests. From our mountain top vantage point we will be in a wonderful position to view the beautiful sunriseOnce we have taken full advantage of our mountain top experience we will head off back to the Lodge for breakfast. We will then set off on our trek to Tadapani. Initially we have a steep climb before we descend through pine and rhododendron forests to Deurali. The trail now continues downwards along a narrow path to Banthanti.
The next section meanders gently uphill through a forest before descending to cross a river. From the opposite bank we have a climb up to our destination today which is Tadapani.
We will stay overnight here in a local lodge.

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Day 19: Trek Tadapani to Nayapul and drive to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft), 5-6 hrs walk/1 hour drive

After breakfast we will follow a trail which passes through Syauli Bazar. The trail descends steeply and passes terraced paddy fields, forests and still offers an amazing Himalayan landscape.
When we arrive at Nayapul our trekking days will be complete for this visit and we will be driven to the lakeside resort of Pokhara for a pleasant evening and an overnight stay in a hotel.

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Day 20: Drive Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)

After having breakfast in the hotel, we will drive back to Kathmandu along the spectacular Prithvi Highway which wends its way through Nepal’s Middle Hills and past some of Nepal’s finer attractions.On arrival at Kathmandu you will check into your hotel. After you have had time to relax you will be free to investigate the streets, restaurants, shops and sights of Thamel.

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Day 21: Departure from Kathmandu

Today is sadly the end of your stay in beautiful Nepal so we will drive you to the airport in sufficient time (3 hours) to ensure you catch flight home.

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Our Price

At Apoorva tours we recognise that not all of our visitors require a set and rigid experience, and there are many options based on the potential tours we have identified. We hope that these have whetted your appetite. Also we realise cost is a prime factor in choosing a tour so we wish to give you the best overall package to suit your needs.

Please contact us with your requirements and we will tailor a package for you. No need to hesitate, it costs you nothing and you can always say no.Our overriding aim is to give you the best, and your satisfaction is our reward

Important notes

If your vacation involves any degree of risk or is subject to weather conditions our guides and tour leaders are instructed to make any Safety related changes to the itinerary. Your well-being is important to us and we want your tour to be memorable for all the right reasons. However we will always make every effort to ensure that you are happy and that your hopes and expectations are realized.

Your Beautiful Choice

Top Reasons to Visit

Historic Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a city of temples and palaces as well as being a bustling and lively place. It has many world heritage sites. Kathmandu’s many buildings and monuments display a significant variety of historic and artistic accomplishment.

Unsurpassed Scenery

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is widely regarded as one of the most scenic treks in the world with its amazingly rich biodiversity. Its rhododendron forests are bursting with life and birds of many hues in the spring.

High Altitude Walking

The demanding climb up the Thorong La pass (5,416m) reaches the highest point on the circuit. From our vantage point we will have breathtaking views. The world’s deepest canyon lies ahead and the views of snow capped mountains is dramatically awe inspiring.