Annapurna Circuit Itinerary

Welcome to the enchanting, exotic and energetic city of Kathmandu! The capital of Nepal is steeped in centuries of history and tradition. Immerse yourself in its vibrant markets, ancient temples, the bustle of spice sellers and street merchants and the welcoming nature of its locals. Kathmandu with its exhilarating allure is a city you won’t forget!

Leave Kathmandu’s frenetic streets, via private 4×4 jeep to the starting point of the trek, nestled between the high peaks of the Annapurna’s and Mt. Manaslu – the world’s 8th highest peak.

The track leading to Jagat heads north up through the Marsyangdi Valley with Himalchuli and Ngadi Chuli (Peak 29 – 7871m) looming over the horizon.

We follow a rocky trail following the Marsyangdi River, passing by some magnificent waterfalls and lush green flora and fauna. The trail winds progressively uphill to Tal – meaning lake in Nepali – and is also the first village in the Manang District. Here the scenery starts to change dramatically from the lush beginnings of the trek. The trail continues along an impressive, wide valley upwards along stone staircases until we reach the village of Dharapani.

The day begins as we exit the village past a prayer wheel leading into deep pine forest. Here the Marsyangdi Valley narrows and becomes at one of its steepest points with the trail carved right into the vertical rock face. As we pass this point the valley opens up to reveal a majestic mountain vista, where the Paungda Danda rock face towers over 1500m above the trailhead.

The trail continues throughout the upper part of the Manang District where the Tibetan/Buddhist influence can be seen throughout. People in this region herd yaks and raise crops such as maize. Leaving Pisang, there are two options that follow the Marsyangdi River both of which meet up again in the village of Mungji and Braga, with its beautiful monastery – the southern route or the northern route.

Today is a rest and acclimatisation day. There are a number of day walks available to do that offer amazing views, whilst also gaining altitude. Possibilities include hiking up the hill (400m ascent) behind Manang and visiting the monastery. Here you can get magnificent views of the entire Annapurna range and the enormous icefall that can be seen crashing down from Gangapurna.

Leaving Manang in the morning we head towards the base of the Thorung La. Climbing out of the Marsyangdi Valley, following instead, the Jarsang Khola. Here we are far above the pine and fir forests and are truly immersed in the beauty of the high Himalaya. Today is a shorter day, taking it slowly as we reach Yak Kharka (Yak Huts) – where yak herders bring their animals to graze.

This is another short day to aid in acclimatisation. The scenery becomes wilder as we continue ascending the valley. The trail descends to cross the river, rising up to our highest lodge at 4450m. Phedi in Nepali means foot of the pass, and indeed it’s true, as it is below tomorrow’s objective – the Thorung La.

We rise early and begin our ascent. We take the path slowly, one step at a time until we reach the Annapurna Circuit’s highest point, the Thorung La, at a breathtaking 5416m high. The pass summit is quite broad, and opens up to reveal an incredible, sweeping panorama of snow-capped peaks extending towards Tibet. Looking back to where we have come offers views of the Annapurna’s.

In the morning we will take a visit to Muktinath temple, this temple is important to Hindus and Buddhists alike. Many people come here on pilgrimage and it is possible for you to enter and witness some of the religious ceremonies. It is a great example of how two religions can share the same holy spot with mutual respect and support. All this before we descend to Marpha.

Experience views of the Himalayas that mirror that of another planet, add this to the beautiful remoteness of your location and you really couldn’t be further from the hustle and bustle of day to day life back home.

A perfect day to rest your feet without missing out on the stunning views. Climb in, grab a seat and enjoy this breathtaking drive on mountain tracks and across riverbeds with unforgettable views of Nilgiri peak, an impressive 6995m high. We’ll stop en-route at a natural hot springs. The perfect way to indulge your tired muscles after trekking.

We return to Kathmandu following the gorge of the Trisuli River, arriving in Kathmandu in the afternoon. Wander around the medieval Durbar Square in the heart of the city, sample some Newari cuisine, or shop for some locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.

We will have a group farewell dinner in the evening at a local restaurant.