A 12-day odyssey through the legendary Annapurna Circuit — cross the mighty Thorong La Pass, explore ancient temples, soak in natural hot springs, and witness sunrises that touch the soul.
The Annapurna Circuit is one of the world's most iconic long-distance treks — a complete circumnavigation of the Annapurna massif that takes you through an astonishing diversity of landscapes, from lush subtropical valleys and terraced rice paddies to arid high-altitude deserts and glacial moraines. Over 12 days, you will witness Nepal's remarkable geographic and cultural tapestry unfold step by step.
The crown jewel of this trek is the crossing of Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres — one of the highest trekking passes in the world. From there, descend to the sacred Muktinath Temple, soak your tired muscles in the natural hot springs of Tatopani, and cap it all off with the legendary Poon Hill sunrise over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range.
Along the way, you will pass through traditional Gurung and Manangba villages, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, and experience the warmth of Nepali teahouse hospitality. This is not just a trek — it is a journey through the heart and soul of the Himalayas.
Your Journey
Experience
From crossing one of the world's highest passes to soaking in natural hot springs, every day on the Annapurna Circuit brings a new wonder.
Cross one of the world's highest trekking passes
Sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists
High-altitude valley with stunning mountain panoramas
From subtropical forests to alpine deserts in one trek
Soak in natural thermal springs after the pass
Iconic sunrise over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna
360-degree views of the Annapurna massif
Immerse in traditional mountain village life
Day by Day
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Meet your trekking guide for a detailed trek briefing covering the route, altitude acclimatization, and gear check. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine while getting to know your fellow trekkers and preparing for the adventure ahead.
Early morning departure from Kathmandu for the scenic 7-hour drive through the lush Middle Hills to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, and onward to Chame. The road winds along river valleys and through charming hill towns. Arrive in Chame, the headquarters of Manang district, and settle into your lodge. Enjoy your first views of Annapurna II towering above the valley as the sun sets.
Begin your trek through fragrant pine forests along the Marsyangdi River valley. The trail gradually climbs through a dramatic narrow gorge with towering rock walls on either side. As you ascend, the landscape opens up to reveal your first breathtaking views of the Annapurna range. Arrive in Upper Pisang, a traditional stone village perched on the hillside with a centuries-old Tibetan-style monastery.
Trek along the upper trail with stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. The path passes through the village of Ghyaru before descending to the Marsyangdi Valley. Arrive in Manang, a fascinating high-altitude settlement with flat-roofed stone houses and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Visit the ancient Braga Monastery, one of the oldest in the region, housing centuries-old clay statues and Buddhist scriptures.
A crucial rest day for altitude acclimatization before the big pass crossing. Choose between a challenging hike to Ice Lake (4,600m) with its stunning turquoise glacial waters, or a gentler walk to Gangapurna Lake at the base of the Gangapurna Glacier. In the afternoon, explore the traditional Gurung village of Manang, visit the local mountaineering museum, and browse handicraft shops. Attend an optional altitude sickness lecture at the Himalayan Rescue Association post.
Leave Manang and trek steadily upward through the increasingly barren and dramatic high-altitude terrain. Pass through Yak Kharka (yak pastures) and Thorong Phedi before reaching the High Camp at 4,450m. The landscape is stark and awe-inspiring — rocky moraines, glacial valleys, and towering peaks surround you. Settle in early, eat a hearty dinner, and prepare for the pre-dawn start to cross the pass. Early night is essential.
The biggest day of the trek! Depart before dawn (around 4-5 AM) and begin the steep climb to Thorong La Pass at 5,416m — the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. The ascent is challenging but the reward is extraordinary: prayer flags whipping in the wind, a panoramic sweep of Himalayan giants, and an immense sense of achievement. After celebrating at the top, descend steeply to the sacred town of Muktinath. Visit the revered Muktinath Temple, a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists with its 108 water spouts and eternal flame.
Trek and drive from Muktinath down through the dramatic Kali Gandaki gorge — the deepest gorge in the world, flanked by the massive peaks of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. Arrive in Tatopani, which translates to "hot water" in Nepali, and reward yourself with a long, relaxing soak in the natural hot springs beside the river. Celebrate the successful pass crossing with your team over a well-earned dinner.
Ascend from Tatopani through beautiful terraced farmland and into lush rhododendron forests that burst into spectacular bloom during spring (March-May). The trail climbs steadily through Sikha and Chitre villages, offering glimpses of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South along the way. Arrive in the charming hillside village of Ghorepani, set early for tomorrow's iconic Poon Hill sunrise. Evening at leisure in the cosy teahouse.
Wake before dawn for the 45-minute hike to the summit of Poon Hill (3,210m) for one of Nepal's most iconic sunrise experiences. Watch as the first rays of light illuminate the entire Himalayan panorama — Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and Annapurna I stretching across the horizon. Descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast, then continue the trek downhill to Nayapul. Drive to Pokhara and check into your lakeside hotel for a well-deserved rest.
A free day to relax and celebrate your achievement in beautiful Pokhara. Stroll along the peaceful shores of Phewa Lake, browse the vibrant lakeside shops and cafes, or simply soak up the mountain views from your hotel terrace. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner at a signature lakeside restaurant to share stories and memories from the trek with your fellow adventurers.
Enjoy a final lakeside breakfast before flying or driving back to Kathmandu. Depending on your departure schedule, there may be time for last-minute shopping in Thamel or a visit to one of Kathmandu's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Our team assists with airport transfers and onward travel arrangements. Depart Nepal with a lifetime of Himalayan memories.
What's Included
Good to Know
Ready for the Circuit?
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