Annapurna Circuit Trek

Kathmandu

Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. Attend the group welcome meeting today and enjoy a brief orientation walk around Thamel.

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Meet Your CEO and Group

1h

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Kathmandu Orientation Walk

Kathmandu 1h

Get a taste of this lively capital city, which is fascinating at every turn.

Accommodations:  Kantipur Village

Kathmandu/Chamje

Travel through scenic landscapes, picturesque countryside, and small towns along the way to Besi Sahar. The group will arrive in time for lunch. After lunch, the group will take the local transportation to Chamje along a winding, narrow road. Spend the night at the teahouse.

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Private Vehicle

Kathmandu - Besi Shahar 6h - 7h 179km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

4x4

Besi Shahar - Chame 4h - 5h 66km

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Accommodations:  Hotel Mount Kailash

Chamje/Bagarchhap

Begin 13 days of challenging trekking in one of the highest mountain ranges on Earth. Experience stunning Alpine pastures, forests of rhododendron, temples, rural villages and local people, waterfalls, glaciers, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery known to man. Today, the group will travel 20km on foot from Chamje to Bagarchhap. Ascend through forested areas of rhododendron (seasonal) and pine trees. Pass by waterfalls, traditional villages, and terraced fields of crops.

For almost 2 weeks, we immerse ourselves into the spectacular mountain wilderness of the Annapurna Range. At 8,091m (26,545ft) Annapurna 1 is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its surrounding sister mountains are equally imposing, creating magnificent panoramas from any view point. Throughout the trek we come across isolated mountain communities, each observing different ancestral customs and traditions, resulting in not only a visually superb expedition but also a culturally rich one. Amid the rugged mountain scenery, we meet warm and welcoming locals herding yaks and goats on grassy pastures, and visit their monasteries and temples. Along the way, we see waterfalls of melted snow, cross icy rivers, broad plains, and high mountain passes and reward ourselves with a soak in natural hot springs (you've earned this!). The trekking is challenging, averaging 6-7 hrs a day, often at high altitudes. The highest point we reach, occurring on Day 9, is the 5,416m (17,769ft) Thorung Pass.Given the dangers of altitude sickness, it is imperative that we take at least 3 days to ascend to this height. A couple of days are also allowed for rest and acclimatisation.

Details for the trek are as follows. Please note however that the exact itinerary can vary due to unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions or bandhs (strikes) called by the government.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek Chamje to Bagarchhap

Chamje - Bagarchhap 8h - 9h 20km

Cross breathtaking landscapes and winding paths around the mountains. Steep sided valleys filled with lush vegetation line the way to Bagarchhap. Leave Chamje behind to walk along the Marshyangdi River and pass through beautiful forests of rhododendron (seasonal) and pine trees to reach the village of Tal, where we stop for lunch. As the group approaches Bagarchhap (2160m), the trail becomes steeper and you'll begin to see the houses of the Manang Region - built from stone and slate roofs. Walking distance - 20 Kms. Time 8-9 hours. Elevation gain - 750m Terrain: mostly rocky terrain with mixed forested areas.

Accommodations:  Marshyangdi Mandala

Bagarchhap/Chame

Today, trek from Bagarchhap to Chame (2,670m, 8,760ft). Breathe in the fresh mountain air and climb up along the trail through dense pine and fir forests. Enjoy stunning views along the way of Manaslu and other peaks of the Annapurna range. Have lunch in Thanchok before continuing on to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek From Bagarchhap to Chame

Bagarchhap - Chame 6h - 7h 16km

Trek from Bagarchhap to Chame and watch as the scenery changes to more Alpine surroundings. Breathe in the fresh mountain air. Climb up along the trail through dense pine and fir forests to reach the village of Timang (2630m), and enjoy stunning views along the way of Manaslu and other peaks of the Annapurna range. After reaching the village, the trail continues to climb up through the forest to reach Thanchok where the group will have lunch. From there, pass through the Marshyangdi River, apple orchards, and more small villages before reaching Chame. Chame is the district headquarters of Manang with a few shops and guest houses, which are mostly traditional Manang styled houses. Walking distance - 16 kms. Time 6-7 hours. Elevation gain - (510m) Terrain: Rocky, crossing through pine forests with a mix of steep and gradual ascents

Accommodations:  New Tibetan Lodge

Chame/Pisang

Trek from Chame to Pisang (3,300m,10,827ft). Leave the village of Chame behind, walk out past the prayer wheels and cross wide rivers and pine forests on the way to Pisang. As you hike, enjoy stunning scenery, narrow canyons, and valleys with Annapurna Range as the backdrop. Have lunch in the small, beautiful village of Dhukur Pokhari. Arrive in Pisang and visit the village monastery.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek Chame to Pisang

Chame - Pisang 6h - 7h 16km

Leave the village of Chame behind, walk out past the prayer wheels and cross wide rivers and pine forests on the way to Pisang. Today, the trail is moderately challenging with several uphill and downhill stretches, but the group will be rewarded with the stunning scenery of waterfalls, narrow canyons, and valleys with Annapurna Range as the backdrop. Today our lunch spot will be the small, beautiful village of Dhikur Pokhari. Upon reaching Pisang, take a short hike to Upper Pisang village. Trekking distance 16km. Trek Time 6-7 hours. Elevation gain - 630m. Terrain: Mix of rocky trails, forested areas, and open fields.

Accommodations:  Tibet Guest House and Restaurant

Pisang/Manang

Trek from Pisang to Manang (3,540m, 11,614ft). Today, enjoy stunning views of Annapurna Range, pass through the village of Braga, with its ancient monastery from the 8th Century. Then, continue towards Manang village, passing through fields of barley and buckwheat.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Pisang to Manang

Pisang - Manang 6h - 7h 17km

Cross the Marsyandi River on the way out to Manang. Leave Pisang behind, head out west, passing several small villages and fascinating Buddhist monasteries before arriving at Manang, the largest village in the area. Stop in Manang overnight. Trekking Distance 17km. Trek time 6-7 hours. Elevation gain - 240m. Terrain: Initial part is flat along the banks of Marshyangdi river, later it is dusty and rocky terrain as the trail climbs up through dense pine and juniper forest.

Accommodations:  Mountain Lake Lodge

Manang

Enjoy an acclimatization day in Manang. Set off on a short excursion hike to Gangapurna Lake sitting at 3550m and Choser View Point at 3700m. Have lunch in Manang and explore the village before hiking to a Stupa located in the hills outside of Manang.

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Manang Acclimatization Day

Manang 0h 3km

The dramatic setting of Manang makes for a pleasant rest and acclimatization day with the added benefit of hot showers. The best way to acclimatize is to do some high climbing then return to the lower altitude of Manang for sleeping.

Accommodations:  Mountain Lake Lodge

Manang/Yakkharka

Trek from Manang to Yak Kharta (4,018m, 13,182ft). Today, is a relatively short walking day with only 9kms in distance covered. Trek slowly and climb higher as the trail passes through a sparse forest of juniper and scrub. After lunch in Yak Kharka, complete an acclimatization hike in the surrounding area.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka

Manang - Yak Kharka 6h - 7h 9km

Trek through Manang, where the altitude continues to rise as the route snakes through the mountains and up to Yak Kharka. Today, is a relatively short walking day with only 9kms in distance covered. Trek slowly and climb higher, feeling the temperature drop significantly as there is a decrease in oxygen levels. The trail passes through a sparse forest of juniper and scrub. Yak Kharka is a very small settlement with a handful of teahouses. After lunch in Yak Kharka, complete an acclimatization hike in the surrounding area for another hour or two. Trekking distance 9km. Trek time 6-7 hours. Elevation gain - 478m Terrain: Mostly uphill, rocky trails, and steep ascents, landscape becomes barren, possibility of snow.

Accommodations:  Hotel Gangapurna

Yakkharka/Thorong Phedi

Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi (4,450m, 14,600ft). Enjoy a short, but challenging hike today from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi. Begin with a gradual ascent through the alpine landscape and pass through pastures of grazing yak, small chortens, and streams en route.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi

Yak Kharka - Thorong Phedi 3h - 4h 6km

Trek from Yak Kharka via pastures of grazing yak, small chortens, and streams before arriving at Thorong Phedi. The hiking time will be shortened today as the group continues to trek into higher altitudes. Begin with a gradual ascent through the alpine landscape. The final stretch of the trek is quite challenging. Trekking distance 6-7 km. Trek time 4-5 hours. Elevation gain - 432m Terrain: Barren landscape, rocky and rugged with scattered vegetation, possibility of snow during winters.

Accommodations:  New Phedi Lodge

Thorong Phedi/Muktinath

Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktinath (3,800m, 12,467ft). Today the group will reach the highest point of the trek. This is the toughest uphill walking day. Keep a slow steady pace and enjoy the views while hiking. After reaching the top of Thorong La Pass (5416m) the group will follow the trail as it descends steeply for several kilometers to Muktinath - an important pilgrimage site for both Hindu's and Buddhists.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Thorong Phedi to Muktināth

Thorong Phedi - Muktinath 10h - 11h 18km

Today is the "THE DAY" of our Annapurna Circuit Trek. Begin around 3AM or 4AM with a steep climb up to Thorong La Pass (5416m) - the highest point of the trekking route. We begin the day early in order to avoid the strong wind at Thorong La and to enjoy the majestic and panoramic views of the mighty Annapurna Ranges at the top. Hiking this early requires a headlamp or torch to light the way. After reaching the top, the trail descends steeply for several kilometers to Muktinath - an important pilgrimage site for both Hindu's and Buddhists. Trek Distance 18km. Trekking time 10-11 hours. Elevation gain - 966m Terrain: Mostly rocky with steep drops on one side, and rugged cliffs on the other, narrow path and possibility of snow.

Accommodations:  Eurika Guesthouse

Muktinath/Ghasa

Trek for 2 km, then take a local bus from Muktinath to Ghasa, losing 1800m in elevation, and take a break from trekking for the day. On the drive, view the contrasting yellow hills against green farmland of the valley. See the Kaligandaki, the deepest gorge in the world. Witness the dramatic changes in landscape of the Kaligandaki River and journey past several picturesque villages.

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Local bus from Muktinath to Ghasa

Muktinath - Ghasa 2.5h 57km

Drive from Muktinath to Ghasa in a local bus. The drive time is about 2.5 hours and a total of 57km. Some parts of the road are black topped while some are still bump, mountainous roads.The route passes through the Kaligandaki Gorge, which is the one of the deepest gorges in the world. Along the way, witness the dramatic changes in landscape of the Kaligandaki River and several picturesque villages. Trekking Distance: 2km, 30 minutes Terrain: Varied Terrain, some sandy and some rocky trails, leading to Kaligandaki river. Later, steep with steps and a rocky path.

Accommodations:  Narchyang Community Homestay

Ghasa/Narchyang

Trek from Ghasa to Narchyang today. Travel on foot through the Kali Gandaki Valley and the lower Mustang region of Nepal. Walk along the Kali Gandaki River and through lush forests of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo. Upon arriving at Narchyang, our host community members will welcome the group. Narchyang once used to be the gate for North Annapurna Base Camp Trekking route. But with the Annapurna Base Camp being shifted to south, the village has remained isolated and devoid of tourism for a long time. In order to boost the amount of visitors to the region, the community has recently been active through Narchyang Community Homestay and started welcoming trekkers to their homes. The community is mostly of Magar Culture and are known for their innocence, simplistic ways of life, and bravery.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Ghasa to Narchyang

Ghasa - Narchyang 4h - 5h 14km

The trek from Ghasa to Narchyang takes the group through the Kali Gandaki Valley and the lower Mustang region of Nepal. Cross the Kali Gandaki River and walk through the lush forest of rhododendron, oak, and bamboo. Upon arriving at Narchyang, our host community members will welcome the group to their village and community. Later in the afternoon walk for around 30 minutes and enjoy a dip in a natural hot spring to sooth those aching muscles from the trek. Trekking distance 14km. Trekking duration 4-5 hours. Elevation change - 800m Terrain: Some steep descents, some gentle climbs, varied vegetation, sub tropical forest and stone steps.

Narchyang Community Homestay

Narchyang

Set in the lower village, the Narchyang homestay offers a glimpse into traditional village life. Learn about the Magar culture and the Magar Kura language from your hosts and embrace this unique opportunity to live like a local. Get to know your hosts more over dinner as you enjoy a homemade meal of Nepali Dhido Set - typical cuisine for the area. Set in the lower village, the homestay provides the perfect starting point for exploring. Hike to the upper village for spectacular mountain views.

• Meals Included:
• Lunch
• Dinner
Accommodations:  Narchyang Community Homestay

Narchyang/Sikha

Today the group will ascend once again on the trek. Walk through the forests and terraced fields, and climb uphill admiring the stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli along the route. Reach a mesmerizing view of ascending levels of teahouses and lodges with the mountains surrounding. Today's hike will be 4-5 hours.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Narchyang to Sikha

Narchyang - Sikha 4h - 5h 11km

Walking through the beautiful rhododendron (seasonal) forests and terraced fields and trek uphill admiring the stunning views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. Trekking Distance 11 Kms. Trekking Duration. 4-5 hours. Elevation gain 515m. Terrain: Mix of rocky trails, dense forest, occasional streams and terraced farmlands.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  See You Lodge

Sikha/Ghorepani

Today trek from Sikha to Ghorepani (2,860m, 9,137ft). The route is seeped in history and the views of Machhupuchare and the Himalayas from Ghorepani are absolutely unmatched on a clear day. View local villages, teahouses, and settlements along the uphill route.

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Annapurna Circuit Trek from Sikha to Ghorepani

Sikha - Ghorepani 4h - 5h 8km

From Sikha, take a route seeped in history all the way to Ghorepani; myths and stories of the origins of the indigenous people of the Annapurna region abound. The views of Machhupuchare and the Himalayas from Ghorepani are absolutely spectacular on a clear day. The trek while relatively short, is a very steep climb through the forest offering beautiful views of the mountains and valley below. Trekking Distance 8km. Trekking Duration 4-5 hours. Elevation gain - 945m. Terrain: Terraced fields, uphill ascents through the rhododendron and oak forests.

Accommodations:  See You Lodge

Ghorepani/Ramghai

Enjoy an early morning excursion to Poon Hill for sunrise. Then venture through Ghorepani to Ramghai, enjoying spectacular views of the Annapurna range along the way. Cross through forests, streams, and bridges to reach the final destination, Ramghai.

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Poon Hill Excursion

Ghorepani - Poon Hill 3h 4km

Take in the incredible mountain scenery that lines the route from Ghorepani to Poon Hill (3210m). Enjoy the views across rhododendron forests and of spectacularly coloured birds during the trek. Arrive at Poon Hill to enjoy some of Nepal's best vistas. Walking distance : 4kms Time: 3 hours Elevation gain: 350m Terrain: mostly rocky terrain with mixed forested areas.

Annapurna Circuit Trek Day from Ghorepani to Ramghai

Ghorepani - Ramghai 6h - 7h 15km

Trek from Ghorepani to Ramghai. The views from the trek are absolutely stunning and are known to be among the best in the area. The trail starts with a steep uphill climb through the rhododendron forest. After breakfast at the top, the group will begin the down hill walk all the way to Ramghai. This is the last day of the trek. Enjoy a final day in the mountains with the team of our guides and porters, thanking them for their effort in endlessly supporting our trek and making it successful. Trekking Distance 15km. Trekking Duration 6-7 hours. Elevation loss - 1525m. Terrain: Mostly downhill, through rhododendron forests and farmlands.

Accommodations:  Ever Green Lodge

Ramghai/Pokhara

Take a short hike from Ramghai to Birethanti where our bus will be waiting to take us to Pokhara. Rest and take a well-deserved shower in this lakeside resort town.

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Hike from Ramghai to Birethanti

Ramghai - Birethanti

Complete the final leg of your trek with a 1-hour hike to Birethanti where the bus awaits.

Private Vehicle

Nayapul - Pokhara 2h 42km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodations:  Hotel Lake Star

Pokhara/Kathmandu

Return to Kathmandu.

We travel back to Kathmandu where the rest of the day is free for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing in one of the many rooftop cafes.

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Private Vehicle

Pokhara - Kathmandu 8h - 9h 200km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Kathmandu Evening

Enjoy some free time in Kathmandu by shopping, sightseeing, or simply enjoying a cup of warm chai in a roadside cafe.

Accommodations:  Kantipur Village

Kathmandu

Depart at any time.

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Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

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Optional Activities for Day 18
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Everest Flight
Mount Everest - Kathmandu
Get a close look at awesome Mt Everest, the highest mountain in the world, without having to do any climbing; this one-hour plane tour will give you an unforgettable experience. At times, the weather may cover Everest, but the surrounding view is still worth the ride!
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.