Annapurna Circuit Trek 12 Days

Our adventure begins after taking an early morning breakfast. The journey from Kathmandu to Besisahar takes around 6-7 hours, depending on the weather and road conditions. We will have a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar. The journey continues along the Marsyangdi River, and gradually passes through green valley hills and rural settlements. Along the way, we will also have glimpses of Ganesh Himal and Manaslu Peak. After reaching Besisahar, we will take rest for a while. Then the route passes through Syange, Jagat, Dharapani and Timang before reaching Chame. We will have an overnight stay and dinner.

Today is the first day of our trek. We will gain an elevation of 590 m within 5-6 hrs while reaching Upper Pisang. The distance is approximately 10-12 km. After leaving Chame, we will walk through pine and rhododendron forests. The trails are moderate and easy to navigate. Along the journey, we will pass through settlements such as Dhikur Pokhari Bharatang, and Lower Pisang. The trails gradually ascend and offer remarkable views of the Annapurna range (Annapurna I, Annapurna III), Gangapurna and more. While approaching Upper Pisang, we will have much better views of the mountains. We stay in a cosy tea house with warm food.

The trek from Upper Pisang to Manang passes through verdant forests and terraced fields, offering spectacular views of the Annapurna range and other mountains along the way. After leaving Upper Pisang, we have to cover a distance of roughly 17-18 kilometres in 5-6 hours. Our trail passes through the beautiful settlements of Ghyaru and Ngawal. Here you will see unique stone-paved houses, monasteries, Mani walls and prayer flags. After reaching Manang, we will have a sense of relaxation in the serene environment. From here, you will get the breathtaking views of the Annapurna Massif, Manaslu and Dhaulagiri Ranges.

A rest day is significant before ascending to the higher elevations and Thorong La Pass. As per the itinerary, today is the acclimatisation day for us. We don't sit all day. After taking breakfast, we do a short hike. We will walk up to the Gangapurna Lake or explore the Braga monastery. For those with more energy, can hike to Ice Lake (Kicho Tal). Meanwhile, in the late afternoon, we will also visit the café and shops to interact with the locals.

Our trek continues on day 5. Today, we will enter the higher alpine regions of Annapurna. After leaving Manang, we will gradually walk through alpine meadows, glacial streams, and moraine landscapes till we reach Khangsar village and Shree Kharka. This part of the Annapurna Circuit is moderately challenging with rugged terrain and steep paths. The Tilicho Base Camp is located at the foot of Tilicho Glacier. From here, we will have spectacular views of the Annapurna range and Tilicho Peak. We'll stay in tented camps.

The 6th day of the Annapurna Circuit trek is going to be rewarding for us. After waking up early, we will hike to Tilicho Lake – one of the highest lakes in the world. The trail will be tough and challenging, but the views are astonishing. We will see snowy mountains, rocky cliffs or may encounter blue sheep. After spending some time and making good memories, we will back down to Shree Kharka and spend a night.

Departing from Shree Kharka, we will ascend into the alpine meadows and open fields. Along the way, we may encounter blue sheep, mountain deer and grazing yaks. As we ascend upwards, we will get the breathtaking views of the Annapurna II, Tilicho and Gangapurna. After a few hours of uphill walking, we'll reach Yak Kharka. Here you can relax and enjoy the surrounding views with a sip of hot drinks.

After leaving Yak Kharka, we will depart for Thorong High Camp. We will walk through alpine meadows and rocky slopes that offer impeccable views of Tilicho Peak and the surrounding mountains. Along the trail, you may see grazing yaks, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer. The path gradually ascends to Thorong High Camp. After reaching Camp, we will rest, acclimatise and prepare for the next day's trip.

The 9th day journey will be challenging but equally rewarding. We will wake up before dawn, around 3 to 4 a.m. After getting ready, we will climb steadily and gradually with a deliberate pace. Upon walking for a couple of hours, we will reach Thorong La – one of the highest trekking passes in the world. From here, you will have breathtaking views of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and other surrounding peaks. After taking photographs and making memories, the route starts its descent toward Muktinath. The downhill trails will take approximately 5-6 hours. After reaching Muktinath, we will stay in a comfortable hotel and have a delicious dinner.

Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is also known as the place of salvation. The 108 water sprouts are the main attractions of this place. After receiving blessings from Lord Vishnu, we will have a scenic drive in a jeep from Muktinath to Pokhara. Leaving the Muktinath, we will follow the Kali Gandaki valley before arriving at Jomsom. Here we will take lunch. After taking rest for some time, we will pass through charming places like Marpha, Tatopani, and Beni before reaching Pokhara. At Pokhara, you can relax, sit, and walk at the lakeside. If you are not tired, you may join the pubs and nightclubs.

We will have a scenic drive from Pokhara. It takes around 6-7 hrs to reach Kathmandu. After reaching the valley, you may take rest. In the evening, you have the option to wander and visit Thamel - a bustling place in Nepal. Here you can buy pashmina wool, souvenirs, handicrafts, and handmade jewelry. In the evening, we will arrange a Nepali Cuisine dinner and a cultural farewell program for the trekkers. The food includes Lentils, Rice, and Seasonal Vegetables, Chicken/Mutton/Egg Curry, Spinach, Curd, Nepali Pickle, and Sweets.

After enjoying morning breakfast, our company representative will accompany you to Kathmandu International Airport at least 4-5 hours before your flight time. You may also extend your days for another adventurous trip.