Annapurna Circuit Trekking

Embarking on our journey, a long drive transports us to the starting point of our trek. This presents an opportune moment to sit back, relax, and absorb the changing landscapes – from rivers to terraced rice fields, and the ever-imposing views of the stunning Himalayas. As the day unfolds, we will settle into a guesthouse where all meals are included, providing a comfortable and nourishing start to our trekking adventure.

Continuing our trek from Dharapani, our journey takes us through the village of Danaque before ascending to Tamang Village, known for its unique stone houses and slate roofs. Here, we are treated to magnificent views of Manaslu (8163m), Annapurna, and other towering peaks, creating a picturesque backdrop.

The trail leads us through several Tibetan villages, including Thanchowk and Koto, as we make our way to our final destination for the day – Chame. This leg of the trek offers a blend of cultural experiences and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included to ensure a satisfying and energizing journey.

Departing from Chame, our journey leads us to the village of Telekhu. Along the trail, we are treated to magnificent views of the Annapurna Ranges and the towering Mt. Pisang (6091m). Continuing our trek, we re-cross a suspension bridge to the south side of the Marsyangdi River. The trail then ascends, guiding us through a pine forest and into the upper reaches of the Manang Valley, eventually bringing us to Pisang. This leg of the journey offers both scenic vistas and diverse landscapes as we make our way through the Annapurna region.

Pisang marks the starting point of our trek into the upper Manang area. Today's trail takes us to Braga, a Tibetan village distinguished by its unique architecture, where houses are constructed one upon the other. One of the main attractions in Manang is its Gompa, the largest in the region. Manang is also a popular resting spot for trekkers who stay here to acclimatize before ascending to higher altitudes. The combination of Tibetan-influenced culture, architectural wonders, and the serene ambiance makes this leg of the journey both culturally enriching and vital for acclimatization.

Following the advice of medical professionals to acclimatize before heading to higher elevations, today's plan involves climbing up to Khangsar (3756m). This gradual ascent aids in the acclimatization process, allowing the body to adjust to the altitude. Staying active is also recommended, and this climb provides a meaningful way to achieve that.

After the climb, we return to Manang for an overnight stay. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included to ensure proper nourishment and energy for the day's activities. This acclimatization day is a crucial step in preparing for the higher altitudes that await us on the trek.

Departing from Manang, our trek today spans 4 to 5 hours, leading us to Bangsar Village at an altitude of 3756m. The trail ascends uphill towards Siri Kharka, passing through a small religious village along the way. While the physical demands of the trail are notable, the rewarding views at higher altitudes make the effort worthwhile. Expect breathtaking panoramas of Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu as you ascend.

For our overnight stay, guesthouse accommodation is arranged, ensuring a comfortable and restful evening. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included to sustain our energy levels during this physically demanding yet visually rewarding trekking day.

The trek today presents less difficulty, but caution is essential to avoid slips on the gravelly path and potential avalanches. The trekking duration is approximately 5 to 6 hours. Our destination for the night is Tilicho Base Camp, where guesthouse accommodation is arranged. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included to ensure a comfortable stay and provide the necessary energy for the trek. The day's journey is marked by the unique challenges of the trail, showcasing the need for attentiveness and care amidst the stunning mountainous terrain.

Today's trek takes us higher as we ascend towards Tilicho Lake, a journey lasting around 5 to 6 hours. Tilicho Lake is situated at the base of Tilicho Peak (7134m). Along the trail, you may encounter yaks and deer peacefully grazing amidst the breathtaking landscapes. The changing light throughout the day causes the color of the lake to transition through various shades of blue.

Upon reaching Tilicho Lake, take the time to admire the serene beauty, soak in the surrounding peaks, and capture memorable photos of this stunning location. Subsequently, we will make our way back to Sri Kharka.

Tilicho Lake covers an area of 4.8 sqkm, and our guesthouse accommodation awaits us at Sri Kharka for a comfortable overnight stay. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included, ensuring a satisfying end to this day of exploration and natural beauty.

Commencing our trek today, we descend to Khangsar Village, passing through Tare Gumba (3870m) renowned for its monastery. The trail follows the Thorong Khola Valley, guiding us to the abandoned village of Old Khangsar before reaching our destination, Yak Kharka. Guesthouse accommodation is arranged for our overnight stay, offering a comfortable resting place amidst the mountainous terrain. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included to ensure a nourishing and satisfying experience during our trekking day.

Climbing higher, we gradually acclimate to the increased altitude. Following the east bank of the Jarang Khola, the trail provides views of steep bluffs before leading us to Thorong Phedi, which translates to "foothills." From Thorong Phedi, there is an option to trek for an additional hour to High Camp (4800m). If luck is on our side, we may catch glimpses of the famous blue sheep and even spot a snow leopard, as this region is their habitat. Additionally, Thorong Phedi is home to the Lammergeyer, a bearded vulture, and there is a belief that mythical griffons reside in this area. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included, providing sustenance for our high-altitude trekking adventure.

Today is likely the most challenging day of the trek, involving around 7-8 hours of hiking. The higher altitude adds to the level of difficulty, and the upper regions may experience strong winds. Along the trail, we may encounter sheep, yaks, and merchants transporting their goods. Upon reaching Thorong La Pass, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, and the eye-catching peak of Khatungkang (6484m).

Leaving the pass, we descend around 1600 meters, and the brilliant Dhaulagiri, meaning "White Mountain" and the highest mountain entirely in Nepal, becomes a prominent feature. The trail becomes more undulating and relatively easy before we reach Muktinath, where we stay the night after a 10-hour trek. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included, offering nourishment after this strenuous and rewarding trekking day.

The Annapurna Circuit trek, adventurers embark on a scenic drive to Tatopani, a tranquil haven renowned for its natural hot springs.

Covering a distance of approximately 50 kilometers, the journey unfolds over 5 to 6 hours.

Along the route, trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring views of towering snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and charming villages, providing glimpses into authentic Nepalese culture.

A major highlight of this drive is the remarkable transition in landscapes as the trek descends from higher altitudes to lower elevations.

The ultimate reward of the day awaits at Tatopani, where, after a challenging trek, trekkers can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs. These hot springs are believed to have therapeutic and healing properties, offering a well-deserved respite for tired muscles.

The Annapurna Circuit trek, the journey from Tatopani to Ghorepani unfolds as an exciting adventure. Starting the day, trekkers bid farewell to the rejuvenating hot springs of Tatopani and embark on a 15-kilometer trek.

The trail meanders through a picturesque landscape adorned with dense forests, terraced farmland, and quaint villages. Along the way, the awe-inspiring Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, as well as cascading waterfalls, capture the attention.

A highlight of the trek is the village of Ghara, where the warm hospitality of the Gurung people welcomes trekkers with open arms.

Ghorepani, situated on a ridge, gradually comes into view, promising a spectacular sunset display.

Anticipation builds for the following day's dawn hike to Poon Hill, where the magic of a sunrise panorama over the Annapurna Himalayas awaits, promising a breathtaking start to the day.

The Annapurna Circuit trek, we embark on an exhilarating early morning hike to Poon Hill, a vantage point that unveils breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks as the sun gracefully rises. The hike spans approximately 6 kilometers and is expected to take around 2-3 hours to reach the summit.

After immersing ourselves in the mesmerizing sunrise, we commence our trek to Birethanti, a charming village nestled in the lush greenery of the Annapurna region. The trek to Birethanti covers a distance of around 14 kilometers, with an estimated duration of 4-5 hours.

En route, the journey unfolds amidst the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscapes, featuring picturesque terraced fields, rhododendron forests, and cascading waterfalls. The highlight of the day undoubtedly remains the unforgettable sunrise from Poon Hill, leaving us in awe of nature's grandeur and creating lasting memories of this incredible trek.

From Birethanti, we proceed to Pokhara via a drive covering approximately 130 kilometers, with the journey expected to last around 6 hours. The day promises a blend of natural wonders and scenic drives, marking a fitting conclusion to the Annapurna Circuit trek.