Annapurna circuit trek is one of most the renowned Nepal trekking for holiday adventures in Nepal. The 18- days route climbs along the Marsyangdi gorge through the remote valley of Manang to crest the arid, windswept northern flank Annapurna at the Thorung La, a high but straightforward pass at 5425 meters. The route then joins the ancient trading link beside the Kali Gandaki river. The location of the Kali Gandaki gorge between Tibet and India made it one of the most important passage ways through the Himalaya for thousands of years. From its origin, as a tiny spring in Mustang, the river flows south to India carving its way between the two towering massifs of Dhaulagiri(8172 m) and Annapurna (8091m). These two giants are only 35 km apart, turning the plunge to the Kali Gandaki at Tatopani from their summits into a staggering 6660 m gorge- the deepest on Earth. This magnificent circuit route draws to a close through the Gurung villages and Rhododendron Forests of midland Nepal.

Day by day Trek details

Day 01 – Arrival in Kathmandu
Today is your arrival we welcome you upon your arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu or your choice of Hotel in Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur).Arrival city briefing follows after Hotel check in concerning the necessary formalities on your tour and trek program. Depending upon your arrival time you may spend free time visiting nearby historic/Countryside areas or resting. In the evening sample a delicious traditional Nepali Welcome dinner in an authentic Nepali Restaurant with the cultural dances. Overnight hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 02 – Half  Day Cultural Sightseeing in Bhaktapur
Half day sightseeing in Bhaktapur World Heritage sites where your guide will accompany you on a tour of UNESCO enlisted Hindu temples. These shrines are unique for the fusion of Hinduism and Buddhism in Newari art and architecture reflecting glorious local tradition generated in the golden era of ancient Nepal. There is time to explore the city’s many places of interest with your guide or in your own or take a rest while trekking permits are finalized. Our Trek Leader/Guide meets you in the afternoon for the trek briefing and for the final trek preparation.Overnight Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 03 – Drive to Besisahar /Trek to Bahundanda (1310 m)
We drive from Kathmandu about  6 hours to the village of Besisahar. From here it is a short walk of 15 minutes down to the Marsayangdi where we  cross the River and continue upstream  until we reach the Ngadi Khola, from where it is a gradual climb uphill to the Bahundanda Ridge.We stop here for our first night camping enjoying the surrounding Manaslu and Annapurna Mountain Ranges little further the  village.(3 hrs)

Day 04 – Bahundanda to Tal (1646 m)
We descend the River once again to reach a suspension bridge at Syange.The trail now gradually climbs into an increasingly narrow canyon.After crossing the River on a good suspension bridge near  Chamje, we continue the ascent.We camp at Tal, the gateway to the Manang district valley.a beautiful flat meadow with several Tibetan houses and a splendid waterfall coming off the lower reaches of Pealk29.This is a superb campsite after a fairly short but stepp day.(5 hrs)

Day 05 – Tal to  Temung Meadows (2111 m)
We ascend the east bank of Marsyangdi River through the main gorge. The trail here is at times cut out of vertical cliffs. We cross to the west side of the River at Dharapani, just south of Thonje, the confluence of the Marsyangdi and Dudh Khola Rivers. We do not cross the River at Thonje but turn west and follow the trail ascending on the south side of Marsyangdi through forests and meadows for about one hour, then climb steeply towards Namun Bhanjyang and Temung Meadows, a series of Lush pastures perched high above the River. Excellent views if Manaslu and the peaks situated above the Larkya Pass. (6 hrs)

 
Day 06 – Temung Meadows to Kupar(2591m)
The trail runs diagonally from Temung through Thenchok village and down towards the River Kupar which lies the junction of the Marsyangdi with the Nar River, coming in from the north. Kupar has a police check point, and is near Chame. Between Chame and Pisang the effect the Himalayan rainshadow can be observed. Though the forests do not disappear entirely as they  do later in the upper Kali Gandaki, they become generally sparser with a greater percentage of Juniper.The fields are shown with Barley, buckwheat and potatoes- hardy crops which can thrive in cold, semi-dry regions.(7 hrs)

Day 07 – Kupar to Pisang (3354 m)
We pass through Chame, the headquarter of the Manang District, and cross a bridge to north side of the River near the horticultural apple farm at Brathang.In the afternoon we start the spectacular ascent to Pisang.Before  Pisang the valley makes a “a dog’s leg”turn.This marks the beginning of the transition between the wet and dry zones.The Marsyangdi is in full cry below, gaining momentum to break its way through the line of the main Himalayan range between Annapurana II and Manslu.There is a nice campsites at Pisang, a classic Manangi village, either south or north of the River, or the shortly before the village itself in pleasant wooded country, sheltered from the prevailing wind.
The main villages in the Manang valley – Pisang, Braga and Manang—are reminiscent of American Hopi communities. Tight clusters of flat – roofed stone buildings, the villages huddle against eroding sandstone cliffs for defence and wind protection.(7 hrs)

Day 08 – Pisang to Braga(3445m)
We follow easy terrain through forests to a small ridge. Below and stretching into the distance is the upper Manang valley. The southern tier of this valley is walled by Annapurna II,III and IV. Gangapurna and Glacier Dome to the west. Just visible south of a distant sharp rock peak is the Grand Barrier and the basin containing Tilicho Lake. To the north, just out of sight, is the Thorung La. A long ridge of  Peaks bar the way to Tibet. Descending from this view point, the path crosses a plain and passes Hongde airstrip and later the Sabji Khola. Braga is Cliffside village with several monasteries. There are excellent campsites in the fields below the village.(7 hrs)

Day 09 – Braga –Rest Day
It is essential to spend time acclimatising at this altitude. There are splendid views of the peaks from both Braga and Manang. Manang is large village situated on a rise immediately across from the huge glacier descending from Glacier Dome and Gangapurna. A beautiful emerald lake lies at its foot. Possible side trips include treks to a lake  about 3 hours north of Bragato: the main Manang Gompa: or to  Khangsar on the trail to  Tilicho Lake.(4 hrs)

Day 10 – Braga to Chakadunga(3963m)
A purposely short day for additional acclimatisation. We pass the villages of Manang and Thankey before pitching camp at Chakadunga. A side trip to the stream flowing down from the West Chulu peaks can be attempted in the afternoon.(4 hrs)

Day 11 – Chakadunga – Thorung Phedi(4405 m)
The trail now turns northwest up the tributary valley of the Jargeng Khola. It is sometimes possible to see herds of Blue mountain sheep along the cliffs. We cross a covered cantilevered bride and ascend to Phedi, the last campsite before the Thorung Pass. (6 hrs)

Day 12 – Thorung Phedi to Thorung Pass (5225 m) – Muktinath(3845m)
The big day and the one we have all been looking forward to! We start early in the morning. Our ascent starts with a steep climb for 2 -3 hrs to rock ledge and notch at 4605 m. We then track along an undulating trail to the Thorung La itself 5225 m. At the pass we can seethe Annapurna Range to the south and the Mukut Himal bordering Dolpo to the west. The peak immediately north of the pass is Thorongtse: to the south is an unnamed 6500m peak. The descent to our campsite at Muktinath is long and steep, but we are compensated by the splendid views of Dhaulagiri. Most people find that this day takes them in the order of 10 -11 hours. Muktinath is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is mentioned in the classic Indian Epic, the Mahabharata, and we may see pilgrims bathing in the holy water flowing from the 108 carved spouts surrounding the Vishnu Temple. Muktinath is also home to many ethnic Tibetans and is holy to Buddhists as well. (10 hrs)

Day 13 – Muktinath to Marpha(2670 m)
We continue to descend, gently this time, through fields and poplar groves, then steeply into the Kali Gandaki River valley, reaching the valley floor at Eklaibhatti at a height of 2730m. We then follow the valley southward to Jomsom, the headquarters of the Mustang District. Jomsom is a large settlement with an airstrip, police station and banks. Here the Kali Gandaki River is called the” Thak Khola” by the Thakali ethnic group, many of whom live in this area. Enterprising and ambitious, the Thakalis formerly dominated the salt trade with Tibet in this region and after its collapse diversified into running trekking hotels, construction and other business. We continue into Marpha, a lovely village of white-washed houses and apple fields.(7 hrs)

 
Day 14 – Marpha to Kalopani(2530 m)

Passing the government vegetable and horticultural farm below Marpha, we continue down the Kali Gandaki, reaching the former Thakali trading centre of Tukuche with its large, richly carved homes now largely deserted or converted in to trekking lodges. We continue down along the Kali Gandaki to the twin villages of Kalopani and Lete through an area of beautiful pine woods and grassy meadows.(5 hrs m)

Day 15 – Kalopani to Tatopani(1189 m)
A classic trekking day. The trail cuts through the Himalayan chain at 2400 m with massive Annapurna and Dhaulagiri rising over 6000m on either side of the valley, the deepest in the world. The day brings a transition from the alpine zone to the tropical: in just a few days we have crossed the major climatic zones of the world-tropical, alpine and high altitude desert – as well as having travelled geographically from Central Asia to South Asia. We have Thakali country at Ghasa and enter an area of mixed Hindus: high caste Brahmin and Chhetri hill farmers as well as the Gurung and Magar Hill tribes. As we emerge from the barren Tibetan landscape, water buffalo, banyan trees and poinsettias return to the trail side. Tatopani means “Hot Water” and indeed there are natural hot springs at this place.(6:30 hrs)

Day 16 – Tatopani to Chitre (2316 m)
Today we cross the Kali Gandaki River in the steel suspension and head towards the another old suspension  bridge after walking a while along the River side. we start ascending from through the beautiful hillside villages Ghar, Shikha and through some dense forest .The brief respite is over as we tackle a stiff uphill path for some 1200 m to the village of Chitre.(5 hrs)

Day 17 – Chitre to Ghorepani (2855 m)
Yet more uphill until we reach Ghorepani where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon there is a climb up to Poon Hill which offers a magnificent panoramic view of the mountain ranges. Annapurna south and Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri are up front , towering and prominent, while Machhapuchhre and others look a little less distinguished further to the east. Look past these mountains and the rolling hills diminish in size until you can see the serpentine Chinese road snaking its waythrough the hills. (5 hrs)

Day 18 – Ghorepani to Tadapani ( 2540 m)
The morning ascent takes us eastwards for about an hour until we come to the crest of the hill. For a brief period the trail becomes fairly even before it descending through thick forest to Banthati where we stop for Lunch. Banthati is a small village comprising of a new houses turned into lodges and restaurants. From here we descend for another hour before climbing a steep hill at the top of which lies Tadapani. Tadapani comprise of a few nicely built houses turned into lodges. The people here are all from Ghandruk and they settled here for the purpose of setting up in business for the trekker who pass this way. A more central and close –up view of Machhapuchhre can be enjoyed from here.(6 hrs)

Day 19 – Tadapani to Modi Khola (1646 m)
Our route continues downwards in a south-easterly direction through thick forest towards Pokhara. After sometime we leave the forest behind and cross sparsely covered hills. Going further down we arrive at Ghandruk – a small prosperous settlement with solidly built lodges and Houses. This is one of the Largest Gurung Villages and many of the men from this area have served in the armies of Britain and Asia. After lunch in a terraced field a little below Ghandruk (from where a good view of Dhaulagiri can be seen) we proceed down the steep trail passing farmland until we come to the Modi Khola River, which begins its life in the Annapurna Sanctuary.
We negotiate a narrow suspension bridge to camp on the opposite side of the River. The people here grow rice, maize and other crops according to the season.(7 hrs)

Day 19 – Modi Khola to Austrian Camp(1433 m)
The trail this morning ascends quite rapidly to the village of Landruk. Then it is pleasant trekking through farmland. The landscape is broken by a few houses and the odd school. After lunch we climb steadily through Rhododendron forest before crossing the ridge and continuing to a clearing in the forest. This beautiful campsite near Dhampus is known as “Austrian Camp’. It provides terrific views of the Annapurna and Machhapuchhre.(7 hrs)

Day 20 –Austrian Camp to Pokhara (913 m)

On our last day we trek down through the villages Pothana, Dhampus to Phedi directing the mountain views in the parallel north through the Pothana rhododendron forest.(4 hrs)
Drive to Pokhara/ Boating or get refreshed in the Hotel to get ready for the Last day party
Overnight in Lakeside Hotel Pokhara

Day 21 -Flight to Kathmandu
After the Breakfast we drive to Domestic airport of Pokhara to Fly ot Kathmandu.It’s a short nearly 25 minutes flight with Budha air offers you scenic and stunning Mountain flight to Kathmandu.We meet you at Kathmandu airport to transfer to Hotel in Kathmandu.You have reast of the day free or can join one of our guided Cultural tour around Kathmandu valley.

Day 22 – Leisure in Kathmandu
Leisure Time in Kathmandu. It’s indeed time for the souvenir hunting around Kathmandu’s noted places having optional trip to tranquil historic Heritages in your own or with us or  with our versatile guide. We provide extra drive and drop services anywhere

Day 23- Depart Kathmandu

Our Tour officer meets you in Hotel for the Departure Transfer to Kathmandu’s International Airport. We will be always welcoming you back to Nepal for various other stunning Trekkings or looking forward to serving you in our other country travel arrangements.

The Trek Cost Includes;

-- All the International and Departure Transfers
--Pre and Post Trek deluxe star Hotel Accomodation in Kathmandu and in Pokhara
--Domestic airport Transfers
--Private transportation to Besisahar
--Domestic Flight to Kathmandu from Pokhara
--Half Day Guided Cultural Sightseeing
--Comprehensive Trekking Map
--Authentic Nepali Welcome Dinner
--All the accommodation and full board meals and hot beverages on the trek
--Eco Conscious Camping accommodation with crews, chef, toilet tent, shower tent, 
--Kitchen tents,Dining, Kitchen utensils.
-- Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit
-- Our  Extensive Knowledgeable Licensed Guides and porter 
--services with porter gears
-- Field staff Insurances
-- Private Transportation to /from Besisahar and Phedi
-- Domestic Airport Taxes
-- Dawn Jackets, Sleeping bag, walking poles, duffel bag, facilitiies
-- Extensive First aid medical kit 
-- Quick  Rescue supporting services in case of Emergency
-- Extra snacks services
-- Satellite phone/Communication services in case of Emergency
-- Applicable government Taxes
-- Himalayan Eco Trek Team Management


The Trek cost excludes;

-- All the personal expenses like Alcoholic beverages, Bottled drinks etc.
-- Medical and Travel Insurances
-- International Airfare and taxes
-- Visa Fees
-- Gratuities/Tips
-- Emergency Helicopter Rescue charges
-- Main Meals in Kathmandu and in Pokhara