The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most legendary trekking routes in the world, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the diverse landscapes of Nepal. Stretching around the Annapurna Massif, this classic trek takes you from subtropical valleys and terraced farmlands to alpine forests, high mountain deserts, and the snow-covered heights of the Himalayas.
Renowned for its incredible cultural diversity, the trail passes through villages of Gurung, Magar, Thakali, and Manangi communities, each with unique traditions, monasteries, and warm hospitality. The highlight of the trek is the challenging yet rewarding crossing of the Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world, which rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and beyond.
Combining natural beauty, cultural encounters, and adventure, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a bucket-list journey for trekking enthusiasts and adventure seekers across the globe.
Cross Thorong La Pass (5,416m) – the highest point of the trek and one of the world’s most famous mountain passes
Trek through the world’s deepest gorge, the Kali Gandaki Gorge
Stunning views of Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu
Experience diverse cultures – Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, prayer wheels, and Tibetan-influenced villages
Pass through lush forests, alpine meadows, high mountain deserts, and icy landscapes
Visit charming villages like Manang, Pisang, Marpha, and Kagbeni
Relax in the natural hot springs of Tatopani
Explore Pokhara, the lakeside city and gateway to the Annapurnas
Namaste and welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you and provide a private airport transfer to your hotel in Boudhanath, one of Kathmandu’s most spiritual districts.
Boudhanath is the heart of the city’s Tibetan community and home to the iconic Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in Asia. This peaceful location is the perfect starting point for your Nepal trekking itinerary.
Settle into your hotel, soak in the serene atmosphere, and enjoy a delicious welcome dinner before resting up for your upcoming Himalayan adventure.
Your Annapurna Circuit adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, the official starting point of the trek. The journey takes around 6–7 hours by private jeep or local bus, covering approximately 185 kilometers along winding roads that pass through lush hills, terraced fields, and charming riverside villages.
As you leave the bustling capital, the drive follows the Prithvi Highway, offering stunning views of the Trishuli River and the Himalayan foothills. Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse of rural Nepalese life, traditional farming, and small towns like Mugling and Dumre.
Besisahar (760m), located in the Lamjung District, is the main gateway to the Annapurna Conservation Area. Here, trekkers usually spend the night to prepare for the next day’s hike. You can explore the lively bazaar, stock up on last-minute supplies, and enjoy your first night surrounded by the warm hospitality of the local people.
Drive Distance: ~ 175 km
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours by private vehicle / 8–9 hours by local bus
Elevation: 1,400m (Kathmandu) → 760m (Besisahar)
After a good night’s rest in Besisahar, your journey continues with an adventurous jeep ride from Besisahar to Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. This off-road drive usually takes 5–6 hours, covering rugged mountain trails carved along cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests. The distance is approximately 65 kilometers, but the road conditions make it a thrilling experience in itself.
As the jeep winds its way through villages like Syange, Jagat, Dharapani, and Bagarchhap, you’ll witness changing landscapes – from subtropical greenery to pine forests and closer views of the snow-capped Annapurna ranges. The ride also gives you a first-hand experience of rural Himalayan life, traditional stone houses, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
Chame (2,670m), located on the banks of the Marsyangdi River, is a charming town surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. With teahouses, bakeries, and small shops, it offers a comfortable base to acclimatize and prepare for the trekking days ahead.
Drive Distance: ~ 65 km (Besisahar → Chame)
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours by Jeep
Elevation: 760m (Besisahar) → 2,670m (Chame)
Your Annapurna Circuit trek officially begins today as you leave Chame and set out on foot toward Upper Pisang. The trek takes around 5–6 hours, covering a distance of about 14 kilometers, with a steady climb along the Marsyangdi River valley.
The trail passes through dense pine and fir forests, crossing suspension bridges and winding through charming villages like Bhratang and Dhukur Pokhari. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Pisang Peak. Prayer wheels, mani walls, and fluttering prayer flags mark the cultural richness of the region.
As you approach Upper Pisang, the landscape begins to change, with fewer trees and wider valleys that open up panoramic Himalayan vistas. Upper Pisang (3,310m) is a traditional Tibetan-style village built on a ridge, offering spectacular views of Annapurna II and the surrounding peaks. Spending the night here also helps with gradual acclimatization as you ascend higher into the Annapurna region.
Trek Distance: ~ 14 km (Chame → Upper Pisang)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Elevation: 2,670m (Chame) → 3,300m (Upper Pisang)
Today’s trek from Upper Pisang to Manang is one of the highlights of the Annapurna Circuit trek. Depending on your preference, there are two main routes: the lower trail through Humde and Bhraka, or the upper trail via Ghyaru and Ngawal. The upper route is more challenging but highly recommended, as it offers some of the best panoramic views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
The trek takes around 6–7 hours, gradually ascending through alpine landscapes, terraced fields, and traditional Tibetan-style villages. The trail is filled with prayer flags, monasteries, and chortens, reflecting the strong Buddhist culture of the Manang region.
As you approach Manang (3,540m), the landscape becomes drier, resembling a Himalayan desert due to the rain shadow effect of the Annapurna range. Manang is the largest village in the region, with plenty of lodges, bakeries, shops, and even a small Himalayan Rescue Association center where trekkers can learn about altitude sickness and acclimatization. Spending the night in Manang is crucial for preparing your body for higher elevations in the days ahead.
Trek Distance: ~ 20 km (Upper Pisang → Manang)
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Elevation: 3,300m (Upper Pisang) → 3,540m (Manang)
Spending an acclimatization day in Manang is essential before continuing to higher altitudes on the Annapurna Circuit trek. At 3,540 meters, Manang provides the perfect place to rest, explore, and gradually adapt to the thinning air, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
During the day, you can take short side hikes that not only help with acclimatization but also reward you with stunning Himalayan views:
Gangapurna Lake & Glacier (3,900m): A short hike offering close-up views of Gangapurna Glacier and turquoise lake.
Milarepa’s Cave (4,150m): A spiritual site linked to the Tibetan saint, with panoramic views of Annapurna III.
Hike to Ice Lake (4,600m): A more challenging option for adventurous trekkers, providing spectacular scenery and excellent altitude practice.
In addition to hiking, you can explore Manang village, which features traditional Tibetan-style houses, monasteries, bakeries, and small shops. Many trekkers also visit the Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) center, where daily talks are held on altitude sickness and safety at high elevations.
This rest and exploration day in Manang is not just about recovery – it’s about preparing your body and mind for the challenging climbs ahead toward Thorong La Pass.
Leaving Manang, the trail to Yak Kharka is a gradual yet important climb that helps trekkers acclimatize before heading to higher elevations. The trek takes around 3–4 hours, covering approximately 10 kilometers at a comfortable pace.
The path climbs steadily out of the Marsyangdi Valley, passing through Tenki village before heading northwest. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes sparse, with juniper bushes replacing forests, and you’ll often spot grazing yaks – true symbols of the Himalayan highlands. The scenery transforms into rugged alpine landscapes with sweeping views of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.
Along the way, you’ll cross small wooden bridges and pass scattered stone huts used by herders. The thinner air reminds you of the altitude, making today’s shorter trek a perfect balance between progress and acclimatization.
Yak Kharka (4,110m) is a small settlement with a handful of teahouses and lodges where trekkers spend the night. It is the perfect stopover before continuing further to Thorong Phedi and eventually crossing the Thorong La Pass.
Trek Distance: ~ 12 km (Manang → Yak Kharka)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Elevation: 3,540m (Manang) → 4,050m (Yak Kharka)
Today’s trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is a relatively short but significant stage of the Annapurna Circuit trek, as it positions you just below the mighty Thorong La Pass (5,416m). The hike takes around 3–4 hours, covering approximately 7 kilometers with a gradual but steady ascent.
The trail follows the narrow valley, crossing suspension bridges over the Jarsang Khola and passing through rugged alpine terrain with sparse vegetation. Along the way, you may encounter blue sheep and Himalayan birds, adding a touch of wilderness to the stark mountain scenery.
The final approach to Thorong Phedi includes a rocky climb that can feel challenging due to the altitude. Once you arrive, you’ll find several lodges offering basic but cozy accommodation, as this settlement serves as the last overnight stop before Thorong La Pass. Many trekkers choose to rest early here to save energy for the next day’s demanding climb.
For those feeling fit, there’s also the option to continue a little higher to High Camp (4,880m), which reduces the distance to Thorong La the following morning, though sleeping at higher altitude can be tougher.
Trek Distance: ~ 7 km (Yak Kharka → Thorong Phedi)
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Elevation: 4,050m (Yak Kharka) → 4,540m (Thorong Phedi)
Today is the most challenging yet rewarding day of the Annapurna Circuit trek as you cross the legendary Thorong La Pass (5,416m), one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Starting early in the morning from Thorong Phedi (4,600m) or High Camp (4,880m), the climb to the pass takes about 3–4 hours on steep, rocky trails.
At the summit of Thorong La, trekkers are greeted with breathtaking 360° views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, with prayer flags fluttering in the cold mountain air. Standing on the pass is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a true highlight of the circuit.
After enjoying the scenery and capturing photos, you begin a long but rewarding descent toward Muktinath (3,800m). The downhill section takes about 6–7 hours, passing through barren, windswept landscapes that mark the transition from the Annapurna region into the Mustang district.
Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, known for its 108 water spouts and the eternal flame temple. After the strenuous crossing, spending the night here offers both cultural immersion and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Trek Distance: ~ 20 km (Thorong Phedi → Muktinath via Thorong La Pass)
Trek Duration: 10–12 hours (including pass crossing)
Elevation: 4,540m (Thorong Phedi) → 5,416m (Thorong La Pass) → 3,710m (Muktinath)
After experiencing the spiritual atmosphere of Muktinath, your journey continues with a descent toward Kagbeni, a picturesque village on the edge of the Kali Gandaki Valley. The trek takes around 3–4 hours, covering approximately 10 kilometers on mostly downhill trails.
The path passes through the arid landscapes of the Mustang region, where the scenery shifts dramatically from snowy peaks to desert-like cliffs and wind-eroded canyons. Along the way, you’ll pass through small settlements, apple orchards, and ancient monasteries, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Kagbeni (2,804m) is a historic village with narrow alleys, mud-brick houses, and prayer wheels at every corner. Known as the gateway to Upper Mustang, it offers stunning views of Nilgiri Peak and the Kali Gandaki Gorge – one of the deepest canyons in the world. Spending the night here allows you to experience Tibetan-influenced culture, with its gompas (monasteries) and timeless traditions.
Trek Distance: ~ 19 km (Muktinath → Kagbeni)
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation: 3,710m (Muktinath) → 2,810m (Kagbeni)
Today’s trek is a relatively easy and short walk from Kagbeni to Jomsom, taking about 3–4 hours and covering nearly 10 kilometers. The trail follows the windswept banks of the Kali Gandaki River, known as the deepest gorge in the world, carved between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The landscape is stark and dramatic, with desert-like cliffs, eroded canyons, and wide riverbeds. Strong afternoon winds are common in this section, so it’s best to start early in the morning. On the way, you’ll pass through Ekle Bhatti, a small settlement that marks the halfway point.
Jomsom (2,720m) is the administrative center of Mustang and a popular stop for trekkers. Famous for its apple orchards, apple brandy, and Tibetan-influenced culture, Jomsom offers a mix of traditional charm and modern facilities. The town also has an airport, making it a major transport hub for those flying back to Pokhara or Kathmandu. Spending the night here provides a comfortable rest after several high-altitude days.
Trek Distance: ~ 20 km (Kagbeni → Jomsom)
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
Elevation: 2,810m (Kagbeni) → 2,720m (Jomsom)
Traveling from Jomsom (2,720m) to Tatopani (1,190m) by Jeep is a popular choice for trekkers on the Annapurna Circuit Trek who wish to shorten the journey and save energy after crossing Thorong La Pass. This scenic drive along the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, offers breathtaking views and cultural highlights without the long hours of trekking.
The road passes through charming villages such as Marpha, famous for apple orchards and Thakali cuisine, and Tukuche, with its traditional stone houses and Buddhist monasteries. You’ll also pass through Ghasa and Dana, experiencing a dramatic change in landscape—from the dry Mustang region to lush subtropical valleys.
By the afternoon, you’ll arrive at Tatopani, well-known for its rejuvenating natural hot springs, the perfect place to relax and recover.
The trek from Tatopani (1,190m) to Ghorepani (2,874m) is one of the most scenic and rewarding sections of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. This day offers a steady uphill climb through terraced farmlands, dense rhododendron forests, and traditional Magar villages.
The trail begins with a gradual ascent, passing through villages like Sikha and Chitre, where you can experience authentic rural life in Nepal. As you climb higher, the air becomes cooler and the forests thicker, especially in spring when the rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors.
After 6–7 hours of trekking, you’ll reach Ghorepani, a charming mountain village known for its panoramic Himalayan views. Ghorepani is also the gateway to the famous Poon Hill viewpoint, where trekkers enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
The early morning hike from Ghorepani (2,874m) to Poon Hill (3,210m) is the highlight of the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Poon Hill is one of the best viewpoints in Nepal, offering a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, along with panoramic views of Nilgiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchuli.
After enjoying the sunrise and taking in the stunning Himalayan scenery, you descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. From there, the trek continues downhill through rhododendron and oak forests, passing by small Gurung and Magar settlements.
The trail gradually descends to Ulleri (2,050m), a traditional stone-built village famous for its steep stone staircases and spectacular views of Annapurna South and Hiunchuli. The day combines the magic of high Himalayan panoramas with cultural encounters in lower-altitude villages.
The last day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek (or Ghorepani Poon Hill section) takes you from Ulleri (2,050m) down to Nayapul (1,070m), followed by a scenic drive to Pokhara (827m).
From Ulleri, the trail begins with a steep stone staircase descent, then gradually eases as you pass through villages such as Hile and Tikhedhunga, surrounded by terraced farmlands and rivers. The lush green hills and subtropical climate mark the final transition from the high mountains back to the lowlands.
At Nayapul, your trek officially concludes. From here, a private vehicle or local jeep takes you on a 2-hour drive to Pokhara, a beautiful lakeside city and one of Nepal’s most popular travel destinations. Pokhara is the perfect place to relax, with stunning views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), the serene Phewa Lake, and plenty of cozy cafés and restaurants.
After breakfast, we leave Pokhara (822m) and drive back to Kathmandu (1,400m). The journey takes around 6–7 hours along rivers, terraced fields, and green hills, offering beautiful views of rural Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner , a perfect way to celebrate the completion of your Mardi Himal Trek.
Today, we’ll transfer you to Kathmandu Airport for your departure flight. As you prepare to board, take a quiet moment to reflect on the many wonders experienced during this unforgettable journey — from the towering Himalayan peaks to the warmth of the Nepali people.
Each smile shared, each breathtaking view, and each cultural encounter is a treasure you carry home. Let the unique spirit of Nepal linger in your heart, inspiring dreams of future adventures in faraway places.
Until we meet again — safe travels and may the road ahead be filled with discovery, joy, and new horizons.
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