20 Days
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Annapurna Circuit Trek
 

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Overview
Annapurna Circuit Trek, a horseshoe-shaped, classic trek in the Annapurna Range in central Nepal, is considered as one of the supreme treks in the world. The year 1977 marks the inauguration of this trek to the foreign trekking enthusiasts. Also known as Annapurna round trek, the Annapurna Circuit trekking encircles Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III and Annapurna IV while making its way through two different river valleys - Marshyangdi river valley and Kali Gandaki river valley (the deepest gorge of the world). This 128 mile Annapurna Circuit walk goes all the way through two zones (Gandaki and Dhaulagiri) and four districts (Lamjung, Manang, Mustang and Myagdi) of Nepal. The trail takes you to the elevation of 5400m on the Thorong La pass, touching the periphery of the Tibetan highland.

Annapurna Circuit hike follows a counter-clockwise direction, giving you an opportunity to enjoy the splendid scenery of Annapurna along with Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Langtang Himal, Manaslu, Gangapurna and Tilicho peaks alongside the trail. The route also goes through the world’s deepest Gorge.

Apart from the natural beauty, a trip to Annapurna offers a wonderful break where you can experience more than 10 different groups of culturally rich tribes such as Gurung, Thakali and Manangi. Lamjung and Myagdi - the sub-tropical region offers the views of hamlets and terraced farming. Most of the people here are Hindu. Manang and Mustang are situated in higher elevation which give you the similarity of Tibetan Buddhists, Tibetan culture and the lifestyle of the Manang valley and lower Mustang. Most of the people reside in Manang are the Gurungs. Moreover, you can also enjoy Bonpo religion in the villages, like Thini and Lurpa near Jomsom and Nargon near Kobang. The trek also goes through a famous Hindu and Buddhist holy site ‘Muktinath’ as well as Braga- one of the oldest monasteries in the region.

The trail also gives you the opportunity to enjoy two hot springs, at Chame and Tatopani . You can take a dip in the cold pools (Kunds in local language), namely Saraswati and Laxmi, or enjoy bathing in sacred water that is poured through 108 bull-faced pipes within the premises of Muktinath Temple. Or you can simply observe the view of Buddhist and Hindu devotees offering prayers and gratitude in their traditional ways. Jwala Mai, a temple slightly below the temple of Muktinath also offer a surprising view of fire-flame created by natural gas from water, rock and soil..

(Please note: Trekkers’ safety is our top priority. Therefore, the team leader has full authority to make changes or cancel any part of the previously designed itinerary. Please be flexible and cooperate with the team leader in case of unexpected weather change, an unsuitable health condition of a group member or an unforeseen natural disaster. Beyond Himalaya requests all trekkers to add a few extra days to your plan. If everything goes well, we can also make arrangements for you to enjoy other popular adventurous activities like rafting, jungle safari, bungee jumping and many more.

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be greeted by one of our company representatives who will take you to your hotel. Later that day or the following day, a meeting is scheduled at our head office to brief you the details of your upcoming trek. Here, you will also be introduced to your trekking guides and Sherpas. If your flight arrives early afternoon, a welcome dinner is also scheduled for you at one of the most popular local restaurants where you can enjoy Nepali food along with a glimpse of cultural music and ethnic dance. On request, dinner can also be postponed to the following day.
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, offers a wide range of unique historical, natural and cultural sites. You will be guided to some of these sites today. The sites include the World heritage sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, the Pashupatinath temple - a Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva (the lord that holds the power of destruction), Swyambhunath (Monkey Temple) and the Boudhanath Stupa – dedicated to Lord Buddha. You also have an option to skip one of these sites and visit another World Heritage site, ‘Patan Durbar Square’ along with Mahabouddha Temple, Kumbeshwor Temple, Krishna Temple and Golden Temple that simply offers some of the historical masterpieces to the connoisseurs of art. After spending 4 hours visiting these beautiful sites, we will meet one more time to finalise your clothing and trekking gears. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Our guide will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to the bus station to Besisahar. From here, we head towards the west of Kathmandu valley via Prithvi Highway and then continue the journey towards west to Dumre. On reaching Dumre, we leave the highway to Pokhara towards the north to Besisahar. This winding highway along the Trisuli River offers a spectacular view of mountains, rivers, jungle, waterfalls as well as hamlets situated higher up on the hills and amphitheater-shaped terraced field flaunting different seasonal crops. Overnight at a lodge in Besisahar.
After breakfast at the lodge, we start our first day of the trek through the dusty road heading towards north and then the trail eventually makes its way through the sub-tropical woods and the rice terraces until we reach Khudi and Bhulbhule where trekkers can enjoy the imposing view of 60m high waterfalls, and the first view of Manaslu (8156m), Himchuli and Nagdi Chuli. We then move towards the small town of Nagdi. We cross a long suspension bridge across Nagdi River and gently climb uphill towards Bahundanda. It is also considered as an exceptional set up to the culture of Nepal as you will come across the Gurung and Tamang settlements along the trail. Overnight at a lodge in Bahundanda.
After breakfast at the lodge in Bahundanda, we continue the trail which first drops steeply to Syange at 1,070m. Syange offers you a mind blowing view of waterfalls. The trail gets more challenging from Syange. However, the view of rice terraces, lush forest, fantastic landscape and culturally intriguing villages is definitely worth the effort. Then, on crossing the suspension bridge across the Marsyangdi River, we follow the river to the village of Jagat. The trail along the river allows you to relish the hum of the mighty Marsyangdi River. From Jagat a steep climb will finally take you Chamje. Overnight at a lodge in Chamje.
Today, we enter the Manang District. After breakfast, we continue the rocky trail that drops down to the roaring Marsyangdi River. On crossing the bridge, the trail along the Marsyangdi River bank climbs up towards the Tal Phedi and a short steep climb from here takes you to the Tal – the first village of Manang District, which is situated on an even plain subsequent on the sandy beach and river at the base of a huge cascade. The trail marvelously exhibits corn, barley and potato fields along with bamboo and rhododendron forests. Here, a classic entrance door influenced by Tibetan culture awaits your arrival. The trail continues up and down to Dharapani village that eventually continues up to Bagarchhap. This place parades Apple orchards, maize fields, colorful prayer flags flapping in the wind and villages consisting of archetypal flat roofed stone houses that belong to local Tibetans. The night is spent at a lodge in Bagarchhap.
After breakfast at the lodge we start the regular walk. We climb up to Danaque in order to savor the excellent view of Mt. Manaslu. From here, on taking the higher route out of two available routes we pass through the village of Tyanga. We choose the higher route as it offers the splendid view of mountains like Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II and Annapurna IV. From here easy walk through the pine forest leads you to Chame, the district headquarter of Manang, which is one of the largest settlements of this area. Today’s hike can be taken as a little rougher hike than previous hikes as the trail makes its way through lots of rough ups and downs and also requires crossing the river several times. However, this trail introduces trekkers to the local population of inhabitants that are said to have migrated from the land of Tibet centuries ago. Moreover, trekkers can also experience hot spring healing thermal bath at the bank of the river and relax their tired muscles. The night will be spent at a lodge in Chame.
After breakfast, we continue to walk the steep trail that passes through dense Oak and Maple forest. We continue walking towards Pisang. On the way to Pisang, after crossing two long bridges, when the trail bends we can finally spot the first sight of a Paungda Danda rock face, which is a curved slab of rock rising more than 1500m from the river. From here the trail joins to Pissang and you will walk further to get to the top of the Thorang La pass. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you take a walk to the village at the upper Pissang for the purpose of acclimatization. Overnight at a lodge in Pissang.
After breakfast, our usual walk begins from Pissang towards drier upper part of the Manang district. There are two route options – situated north and south of Marsyangdi River. The first recommended route (northern route) via Ghyaru (old Tibetan village), is a bit longer and harder route that leads through some of the most interesting villages where you can enjoy old Gompa and a dramatic view of Annapurna. However, if you are looking for an easier route you can take the lower route (southern route) via Hongde that requires less climbing. Eventually, these two routes meet up at Mungji. From here, the trail goes through Bryanga to reach Manang. Overnight at the lodge in Manang.
Today, in order to allow your body to adapt to the higher altitude and thinning air, we either take a short hike to Gangapurna glacier or walk up to the cave which is higher than Manang village. The remaining day can be spent by walking around the village appreciating the great view of the village, getting to know the people and their culture. Today is solely dedicated to acclimatization before we move to the higher altitude. Overnight at a lodge in Manang.
After having breakfast we leave Manang and ascent towards Letdar. For this we make our way through Tenki Manang, continue along the Jarsang Khola Valley, pass through a scrub juniper and alpine grass, enter Ghunsa pass through few meadows where horses and yaks graze and finally reach Yak Kharka. From here an hour walk will finally lead you to Letdar. This little and steady ascent will assist with your acclimatization process. Overnight at a lodge in Letdar.
We walk towards Thorang Phedi. It is quite easy as the trail drops down to the river crossing the wooden bridge and climbs up to the teashop. After a short break the trail heads towards Phedi thorough cliff. Once we reach Thorong Phedi, the walk of the day ends here. However, you can also continue the walk till Thorong Higher Camp if you are looking for a less ascent the next morning. Here you can experience the dramatic view of rock cliffs that are split by deep gorges. At High Camp you can enjoy some newly built guest houses. Overnight at a lodge in Thorang Phedi.
Today is the biggest day of the entire trek as we cross the Thorang La Pass (highest point on the Annapurna Circuit). We start early as our aim is to reach the pass before 10 am to save yourself from the violent wind that blows around noon. About 4 hours of uphill walk, you will arrive at the top of the pass. The trail is accompanied by number of Chotens and colorful flapping prayer flags. Once you reach the top you are rewarded by the magnificent view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We stop for a short photo break at the top and then make our way downhill to Muktinath (in Mustang). After walking downhill for four hours we finally reach Muktinath. Overnight at a lodge in Muktinath. (Muktinath, a temple of Lord Vishnu, is a very sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindu and Buddhist people. Every year lots of pilgrims from Nepal, India and other Buddhist countries visit this sacred place. For Hindus, Muktinath is the God of Salvation and for Buddhists it’s the place of Nirvana. There are two Kundas (pond) and 108 water sprouts in the premises of Muktinath. It is highly believed that taking a dip in the Kundas and taking a bath over 108 water tap washes away all bad spirits and your sin. You can also enjoy Lakhang and Gonde gompa nearby along with Jwala Mai where the fire-flame created by natural gas from water, rock and soil will definitely surprise you.)
Today from Muktinath path further descent in the direction of the Kaligandaki valley and passes through the bank of the holy Kaligandaki River. If you are lucky then you may also find fossils called ‘Shaligram’ that is considered as a part of Lord Vishnu. We maintain the downward walk towards Jomsom, the windy valley, and walk towards Marpha continuing the trail along the river. At Jomsom you can also get the view one of the world’s most dangerous airfields. Marpha, a village development committee in the Mustang District, is a pretty village that consists of village settlement and huge Monastery. Marpha is also known as the apple capital in the nation where you can enjoy Apple Orchid as well as apple brandy factory. The night is spent at a lodge in Marpha.
After having breakfast, we continue the trail which descends through the valley following the Kali Gandaki River to Ghasa. The trail offers you a panoramic view of mountains like Annapurna, Nilgiri, and Dhaulagiri and Tukuche peak along with the incredible sight of Dhaulagiri Icefall on the way. Making your way along the Kali Gandaki River, you start to walk away from the mountains. The trail is rough and dusty but is conquered by superlative scenery of peaks and land. The night is spent at a lodge in Ghasa.
On leaving the snow-paved trail of the Ghasa village, the trail drops down, crosses suspension bridge and takes you to the biggest waterfall ‘Rupse waterfall’ and finally leads you through the deepest George (Kopchepani) in the World at Dana. The trail then moves towards Tatopani where another treat, natural hot spring awaits your arrival. You can relax your weary muscles at Tatopani after days of tiring walk. The night is spent at a lodge in Tatopani.
After the breakfast, the trail continues to the river to cross the bridge across Kali Gandaki River that finally brings you to the junction of the trail. Down the trail leads you to Beni and the upper trail leads you to Ghorepani. We take the upper trail which is considerably difficult as the trail at this point demands almost vertical climbing up through particularly steep stone steps the entire day. The trail leads you to Sikha Village. The trail makes its way up through the forest of Rhododendron to Ghorepani which offers the wonderful view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri range. The trail also gives you a chance to enjoy several Gurung and Magar village en route. The night is spent at the lodge in Ghorepani.
Today is the day to enjoy the view of early morning sunrise; therefore, we wake up earlier than usual. Then we walk for about an hour towards Poon Hill (Photographer’s Paradise), which is also considered as the best standpoint in the Annapurna Region that offers the unparalleled view of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. On reaching Poon Hill you will be greeted with the splendid early morning rays of the sun over the snow capped Himalayas. We spend some time taking pictures and enjoying the view. After that we get back to the lodge at Ghorepani, have breakfast and continue the walk towards Banthanti making our way through the forest. The path continues to drop to Nayapul where we come to the end of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. From Nayapul, we drive to Pokhara and check in to the hotel. You may either spend your time enjoying dinner with other trekking members or spend some time alone recollecting the memories made during the entire trek. The night is spent at a hotel in Pokhara.
After having breakfast at the hotel in Pokhara, we return to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, by catching a comfortable Tourist Bus. After 7 hours of drive through Prithvi Highway, we finally reach Kathmandu. You will be taken to your hotel where you can take a shower and wash away your tiredness. After that we meet for a short time to discuss your experience and feedback related to the trip. By this time the dinner will be ready. The night will be spent at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Today is the last day of your trip in Nepal with AME family. One of our company representatives will assist you to get to the airport as per your flight departure time if you have already booked your return ticket. However, if you are looking to extend your trip, AME Treks and Expedition can make the required arrangements. If your flight is scheduled late in the evening, then you can also go for shopping to collect few gifts for your friends and family.

 

(Special Note: During the entire trek, we serve you a full board meal - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and tea & coffee. Our guides will come to wake you up around 7am (4-4:30am in special days to view the first ray of the sun). Breakfast will be served in between 7 am to 8am. Ordered lunch from the teahouse menu will be served around 12 which can also be postponed if you plan to eat a little later than the scheduled hour. The dinner will be served in between 8pm to 9 pm. Tea/coffee will be provided twice a day. During the walk you can also ask your guide to stop in those areas where you wish to take pictures and enjoy the scenery. If you get tired, you can also request to slow down and rest for some time. After dinner and before going to bed your team leader will brief you regarding the following day’s itinerary.) 

Travel Insurance
You must have a  travel insurance. A travel insurance policy that covers cancellation, injury, death, lost baggage, theft, liability, medical treatment and expenses. Make sure the insurance covers all the activities that you will be undertaking during your stay in Nepal. If a client becomes ill, all hospital expenses, doctors' fees and repatriation costs are the client's responsibility. If you are injured and unable to travel, you can ask for a rescue helicopter from a remote area only if you have definite proof you can pay for it.

Health and Fitness
We strongly recommend you to consult the doctor before planning your holidays. 
Foods and Accommodation
In Kathmandu we use tourist standard hotel to ensure a comfortable stay and relaxed environment before and after your adventure. All breakfasts are included at the hotel in Kathmandu. Rooms are generally twin share – depending on group size and room availability, triple share may be offered up on your request. A single supplement room is available at an additional cost. For breakfast you expect to have porridge, toast or chapattis, omelet and local bread. We will provide all meals on full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and tea & coffee) from the teahouse menu during the trekking period. Whilst trekking on the Everest, the accommodation is in guesthouses or Lodges which are basic with shared facilities. Some lodges offers shower and mostly offers bucket hot water up on request. During the trip you can expect 2 hot showers.

Our effort while you are on a trek
We will try to keep to the proposed itinerary, however as this is adventure travel in a remote Himalayan region, the health of member, weather conditions can all contribute to changes the itinerary. The leader will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if necessary. If you are delayed longer than the itinerary date we can help reschedule your international flights but prepare to pay some extra charge if required.

 

Trip Length:- 20 Days 
Difficulty:- Moderate to Difficult  
Group Size: 2-10 Pax

Activities : Trekking, Sightseeing

Best Month : March-May\ September -December

Transportation : Private Car & Bus

Accommodation : Hotel & Lodge

Style : Lodge Trek

Max Elevation : 5416m at Thorang La pass

Meal : Breakfast in the city and full board meals during the trek

Trip Route : Kathmandu-Besisahar-Manang-Thorang la-Jomsom-Tatopani-Ghorepani-Pokhara-Kathmandu

 

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