21 Days Nepal Annapurna Circuit Trek

Region: Annapurna
Trek Type: Lodge
Trek Grade: Challenging
Trek Days: 17
Max Altitude: 5500m
Best Season: Oct–Mid Dec & Mid Mar–May

This circuit of Annapurna – rightly known as Nepal’s classic trek – offers more variety than any other walks of equivalent length and takes you through virtually every type of scenery that Nepal has to offer. There are superb views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, and the constant variety of landscapes ranges from sub-tropical through alpine to an arid semi-desert similar to Tibet; at the climax of the trek there’s a formidable 5416m pass, the Thorong La, to cross.

Though it is certainly demanding enough for the seasoned trekker, the Annapurna Circuit is still an excellent introduction to walking in Nepal for those who are confident of their fitness. This is a lodge-based trek, so you spend time in villages inhabited by many of Nepal’s different tribes, both Buddhist and Hindu. Every day brings opportunities to gain an insight into the local culture and interact with the local communities whose land you are walking through, whether by bartering for souvenirs, talking to the inquisitive children or relaxing at a tea house during a well-earned break.

Upon arrival, meet and transfer to hotel. Check in & trek briefing. Late afternoon leisure walk in Thamel, a popular tourist district in Kathmandu Valley and a bustling bazaar which offers a glimpse of Nepal’s vibrant ethnic culture.

We start our journey into the hills through the winding roads along the Trishuli River. Enroute we see more of countryside of Nepal that offers greenery, rivers, villages, farms and beautiful mountain scenarios. Upon arrival at Mugling, we head along the road toward Pokhara. We leave the highway to Pokhara at Dumre, and head north to Besisahar. A half-an-hour’s drive from Besisahar takes us to Khudi, the starting point of our trek which offers us a first glimpse of the gorgeous Manaslu range.

Our first day`s walk involves crossing a few suspension bridges, waterfalls, several up and down hill sections across rice paddies and subtropical forest. Initially, the walk is gradual then it becomes steeper. The mountains that we see from Khudi become closer as we walk higher. The villages and people are an interesting. On the way to Bahundanda, we come across an ethnic Tamang settlement, Taranche. At this juncture, we will have first glimpse of the gorgeous Manaslu range.

We trek through amphitheater-shaped rice terraces, along a steep vertical cliff, lush forests, and some culturally intriguing villages. Always following the Marsyangdi River, we walk in a fantastic landscape through little waterfalls, forests and villages. We will not feel tough until we reach Syange (1100 m), but after Syange the climb gets tougher up to Jagat (1300 m). From Jagat, we make a steep climb to Chamje.

Today we enter the Manang region passing through fields of corn, barley and potatoes, and then through forests of bamboo and rhododendrons. On the way is the village namely Tal. Tal lies on a flat plain next to the sandy beach and river at the base of a large waterfall. While hiking, sometimes we may have to give a pass to a large group of donkey caravan.

Today we negotiate a few steep forested ridges along with several landslides on route on the west. We should not forget to look up though, as we will be treated to some of the most sensational views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m).

A steep and narrow path through a very dense forest will bring us to the dramatic curved rock face, rising 1500m from the river. The forests and heavy vegetation would now be gone. We cross and re-cross the river again and again on suspension bridges. As the trail opens up we get surrounded by majestic Himalayan Peaks. We find ourselves in U-shaped valley of Manang hanging between two giant snow peaks. Upon walking through these wonderful sites we reach at Pisang.

Today we experience a contrast with the landscape and vegetation from today.On the way, the cold and dry climate creates a much harsher environment.

Today is the scheduled acclimatization day. It is advisable to stay active and drink more water. The upcoming next two days will be very challenging and tiring trek with rapid gain in altitude. We can also visit at the Himalayan Rescue Association to learn more about Mountain Sickness.

From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees.The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsa, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka.

We make our way to the foot of the pass, Throng Phedi today. Thorong Phedi is a small busy settlement catering to the needs of tired trekkers and climbers. Although we will have a tough day tomorrow, we stop at Thorong Phedi so that we can sleep sound rather than a risky sleep in higher altitude at High Camp.

We reach the climax of our Annapurna circle trek today. It will be a lifetime unforgettable experience- crossing the famous high pass, Thorong La (5416m). An early start is important to complete the mission through the icy high-altitude trail. Upon setting sun we will be at Muktinath. Muktinath is an important pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhist. The area hosts a Vishnu temple and a Monastery nearby.

Descending from Ranipauwa village down the steep and barren hillside, we headtowards Kagbeni and then to Jomsom finally arriving at Marpha. The trail today is quite surreal as we trek along a plateau above Kali Gandaki, the world`s deepest gorge. The barren landscape of this area resembles Tibet. Marpha is also famous as the apple capital of Nepal where one can enjoy different items made from apple. The local apple brandy of Marpha is famous all over Nepal.

Today, we will come across traditional villages of the ethnic Thakali people and get to see apple gardens.

As we drop to lower elevations, we emerge back into subtropical forests, lush with vegetation. We continue along Rupse Chahara (popular waterfall). We avoid the road and continue down the east bank from Kopchepani via Garpar to a bridge at Dana. At Narchyang Besi, we get to see a powerhouse that supplies electricity in the area. We experience more villages in this area where we can observe the everyday lives of the local people. Upon reaching Tatopani, you have the option of a bath in the hot spring.

While walking, we observe the lifestyle of the people in the midland villages of Nepal. Ghara and Sikha are the villages with terraced and inclined farmlands.

As we gain height, you can see the peaks ahead. We stay at Ghorepani for we have to make the climb to Poon Hill early tomorrow morning.

At dawn (about 430am) climb to Poon Hill (3210 m) takes about 1.5 hours. This high point offers a panoramic 360 degrees Annapurna range, Fishtail, Dhulagiri and Nilgiri Mountain around you. Your climb will be well-timed such that you will be able to watch sunrise approaching the mountains. It will be a memorable experience to relish; especially catching the sight of the distant snow peaks bathed in a coat of gold. After spending morning at the Poonhill then back trek to Tirkhedhunga via Ulleri.

Trek downhill to Birethanti and take the transport back to Pokhara. Upon arrival check in hotel. Afternoon free at leisure to explore the Lakeside – a mix of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars and souvenir shops that has thrived along the eastern shore of the enchanting Lake Phewa.

After breakfast enjoy a five hour scenic drive along Trisuli to Kathmandu. Lunch will be on the way. Upon arrival check in hotel. Afternoon free to explore Thamel.

After breakfast, check out of hotel. City tour visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you are lucky, you will get a glimpse of the famous Kumari, the world’s only living Goddess. Transfer to airport for departure.