Annapurna Circuit Trek -13 Days

Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu Airport

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, you will be welcomed by your tour representative and transferred to your hotel. Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is rich in cultural heritage and vibrant with its bustling markets and historic sites. Once you check in at your hotel, take some time to rest and recover from your flight. If you have the energy, you can explore the Thamel area, known for its restaurants, shops, and lively atmosphere. It’s a good opportunity to make any last-minute preparations for your trek.

Day 02: Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat via Besisahar (B/L/D) 7-8 hours

Your journey begins with a drive from Kathmandu to Jagat, passing through Besisahar. The drive takes approximately 8-9 hours, covering around 200 kilometers. The road winds through scenic landscapes, including terraced fields, rivers, and small villages. Besisahar is the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit trek, and from here, you will switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rougher roads to Jagat. Jagat, located at an altitude of 1300 meters, is a small village where you will spend the night.

Day 03: Trek from Jagat to Dharapani (B/L/D) 5-6 hours

Your first day of trekking starts from Jagat to Dharapani. This segment covers about 15 kilometers and takes 6-7 hours. The trail takes you through lush forests, terraced fields, and charming villages. You will cross suspension bridges and follow the Marsyangdi River upstream. The route involves a mix of ascents and descents, offering glimpses of local life and beautiful natural scenery. Dharapani, situated at 1960 meters, is a larger village where you will find various teahouses and lodges to rest for the night.

Day 04: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (B/L/D) 5-6 hours

From Dharapani, you will trek to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. The trek covers approximately 16 kilometers and takes around 6-7 hours. The trail passes through dense forests of pine and fir, and you will encounter several small villages along the way. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and the views of the surrounding mountains become more spectacular. Chame, located at 2710 meters, offers stunning views of Annapurna II and other peaks. It is a well-developed village with good facilities for trekkers.

Day 05: Trek from Chame to Pisang (B/L/D) 5-6 hours

Today’s trek takes you from Chame to Pisang, a distance of about 14 kilometers covered in 5-6 hours. The trail winds through forests and along the Marsyangdi River. You will pass through the apple orchards of Bhratang and cross the river on a suspension bridge. The landscape starts to change as you approach Pisang, with more open valleys and impressive rock formations. Pisang is divided into Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang. Upper Pisang offers better views of the Annapurna range but involves a steeper climb. You will stay in one of these villages, located at an elevation of 3300 meters.

Day 06: Trek from Pisang to Manang (B/L/D) 5-6 hours

The trek from Pisang to Manang is one of the most scenic parts of the Annapurna Circuit. This day’s trek covers approximately 19 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours. You have two route options: a lower, easier trail through Hongde, or a higher, more challenging route through Ghyaru and Ngawal, which offers breathtaking views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Manang, situated at 3540 meters, is a significant stop for acclimatization. It’s a larger village with many facilities for trekkers, including shops, bakeries, and even a cinema.

Day 06: Rest day at Manang and visit Gangapurna Glacier Lake (3540m) (B/L/D)

A rest day in Manang is crucial for acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. On this day, you can explore the village and its surroundings. A popular excursion is a hike to Gangapurna Glacier Lake, located at the foot of Gangapurna Mountain. The lake, with its striking blue water, offers stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding peaks. You can also visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic to learn about altitude sickness and how to recognize its symptoms. Spending this day at a higher altitude helps your body adjust and prepares you for the higher elevations ahead.

Day 07: Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka (B/L/D) 3-4 hours

After your rest day, you will continue trekking from Manang to Yak Kharka. This trek covers about 10 kilometers and takes 3-4 hours. The trail ascends gradually through alpine pastures and juniper forests. You will pass through the small village of Gunsang, where you can take a break and enjoy the views. As you trek higher, the vegetation becomes sparser, and you’ll start to feel the effects of the altitude. Yak Kharka, located at 4018 meters, is a small settlement with a few lodges for trekkers. It is an important stop for acclimatization before heading to higher altitudes.

Day 08: Trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi (B/L/D) 4-5 hours

The trek from Yak Kharka to Throng Phedi involves a gradual climb and covers about 7 kilometers, taking 3-4 hours. The trail passes through rocky terrain and crosses several streams. You will reach Ledar, a small village, before making a steep climb to Throng Phedi, also known as Thorong Phedi, which is situated at 4450 meters. This is the base camp for crossing the Thorong La Pass. Due to the high altitude, it’s essential to take it easy and stay hydrated. Throng Phedi has several lodges where trekkers can rest and prepare for the challenging pass crossing the next day.

Day 09: Trek from Throng Phedi to Muktinath (3760m) (B/L/D) 8-9 hours

This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek, as you will cross the Thorong La Pass, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit at 5416 meters. You will start very early in the morning, around 4-5 AM, to avoid the strong winds that typically arise later in the day. The climb to the pass is steep and can be physically demanding due to the altitude. However, the views from the top are spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After crossing the pass, you will descend to the holy town of Muktinath, located at 3760 meters. Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, and you will have the opportunity to visit the Muktinath Temple and its sacred 108 water spouts.

Day 10: Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni (B/L/D) 6-7 hours

From Muktinath, you will trek to Jomsom, passing through the ancient village of Kagbeni. This day’s trek covers about 20 kilometers and takes 6-7 hours. The trail descends through the Kali Gandaki Valley, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Kagbeni is a picturesque village with traditional mud-brick houses and narrow alleys. It serves as a gateway to the Upper Mustang region. After exploring Kagbeni, you will continue to Jomsom, which is located at 2720 meters. Jomsom is a bustling town with an airport, making it a major transit point for trekkers. You will spend the night here, enjoying the comforts of a more developed town.

Day 11: Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara (B/L) 7-8 hours

After completing your trek, you will take a drive from Jomsom to Pokhara. The drive takes about 7-8 hours and offers scenic views of the lower Mustang region and the lush landscapes as you descend. Pokhara is a beautiful lakeside city known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Once you arrive in Pokhara, you can spend the afternoon and evening relaxing by Phewa Lake, exploring the local markets, or visiting attractions such as the World Peace Pagoda and the International Mountain Museum.

Day 12: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (B/D) 7-8 hours

On this day, you will drive back to Kathmandu, which takes about 5-6 hours. The journey offers another chance to appreciate the diverse landscapes of Nepal, from the green hills of Pokhara to the busy streets of Kathmandu. Upon your return to Kathmandu, you can spend your final evening reflecting on your trek and enjoying the city’s vibrant culture. A farewell dinner is often a great way to celebrate the completion of your journey. You can also take this time to shop for souvenirs and explore any remaining sights in Kathmandu.

Day 13: Departure to Airport (B)

On your final day in Nepal, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Ensure that you have all your belongings packed and your travel documents ready. Reflect on the incredible experiences and breathtaking landscapes you encountered during your trek. This adventure through the Annapurna Circuit will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. Safe travels!