Annapurna Circuit Trek

This evening, meet with your climb guide for a pre-climb briefing, covering transfers, kit, conditions on the mountain, and other related topics. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have about the climb.

Evening at leisure.

Overnight in Bhulbhule.

Enjoy a brief rest stop at Khudi, and take the time to admire the views of the surrounding mountains, and the tiny hilltop villages that dot them – some barely visible at a distance.

From Khudi, continue to Nagdi, our lunch stop, and then on to Bahundanda (1,310m). Bahundanda is a small settlement of about 2,000 people, with a few shops where you can buy groceries.

Leaving Bahundanda, continue on to Syange, where you set up camp tonight.

Beyond Chamche, the Marsyangdi River creates a small valley, in which the village of Tal (1,675m) is located, your resting spot for the night.

Having rested and lunched at La-Thamanang, continue to Chame, a small town with shops and a bank.

Leaving the woods, we enter a large valley, taking us towards Pisang (3,190m). Built on a high ridge, Pisang is divided into an upper and lower section, with approx. 100m separating them. The lower section contains several guesthouses.

The scenery in and around Pisang is beautiful. It is possible to spend an additional day here to acclimatise and take in the surroundings, though it is by no means essential.

Today’s walk is long, and the climb to Ghyaru tough, but you will be rewarded with stunning views as you trek below the Annapurna peaks.

From Nawal, it is a short descent to Manang (3,300m), where you rest overnight. One of the larger settlements in the region, Manang caters for many trekkers, and houses a high altitude sickness centre.

Manang itself is beautiful, surrounded by towering mountain peaks, and situated close to a lake (frozen in winter). There are a number of walking trails which you can explore.

Note that at this height you will likely begin to feel the lower density of the air. Each step, you will notice, requires more effort, and you likely need to rest more often while walking. This is normal at this altitude. It is best to take it slow, and to drink a lot, even when you do not feel thirsty.

From Yak Kharka, the trail becomes steeper as you journey to Churi-lattar (4,250m), and then on to Thorung Phedi (4,500m).

There are several guesthouses in Thorung Phedi, with good rooms to sleep in. You will be able to eat well tonight, in preparation for the most thrilling day of the trek, crossing the Thorung-La pass.

The climb from Thorung Phedi to the pass is about 900 meters - from 4500m to 5416m. In the spring and the summer the trail should be relatively clear, but during the colder months it is likely to be snowed over and difficult to navigate.

Upon reaching the pass, the highest point you'll reach on this trek, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views. The other side of the pass provides a stark contrast, as the landscape changes dramatically from snowy mountains to dry yellow-brown cliffs – an almost desert-like landscape.

The 1,600m descent is tough, and as such needs to be done slowly. It is likely to be evening by the time you reach Muktinath (3,800m).

A popular pilgrimage spot for both Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath is an attractive town, where you’ll be able to enjoy good food and a comfortable night’s sleep.

En route to Jomsom, you pass ancient caves that house remarkable geological forms. The trail also takes you through Kagbeni, a pretty village of stone houses and narrow alleys, where it is worth spending a short while exploring.

Jomsom (2,700m) is a large village, with a small airport connecting it to Pokhara. There are some helpful facilities in this village – banks, a local clinic, and lots of shops and guest houses. Don't miss the German Bakery, located in the North of the village – they have sandwiches, cakes, drinks and all kinds of chocolates. The perfect treat after a challenging trek!

Overnight in Jomsom.

Arriving in Kathmandu late morning, we will have the rest of the day to explore, go shopping, and visit the palaces and markets.

A favourite destination for many is Swayambhunath, more popularly known as the Monkey Temple – a Buddhist temple situated on a small hill that offers panoramic views of the city. Or perhaps join the thousands of Hindus who venture to the Pashupatinath temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples in Nepal.

We can arrange a tour and guide for you, or if you prefer, simply pick up a guidebook and explore at your own leisure.

Please keep your air ticket, departure tax (in local currency) and your passport handy.