Annapurna Circuit And Base Camp Trek

A representative from Sherpa Expedition & Trekking staff will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. This is followed by a briefing covering all aspects of the trek. With some spare time in the afternoon you can explore the tourist hub of Thamel until the evening.

Today we will spend sightseeing in Kathmandu Valley with our guide. We will visit Pashupatinath, regarded as the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal and a place where pilgrims worship Lord Shiva (on the banks of the holy Bagmati River), Bouddhanath, a Buddhist temple known as ‘Little Tibet’ and then on to Swayambhunath known as the Monkey Temple. From Swayambhunath we will drive to Kathmandu’s famous Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, and located in front of the old royal palace. Back at your hotel, you will have time to do some last-minute shopping around Thamel – the tourist hub of Kathmandu. Your guide will be available to help you prepare for the trek and answer any questions.

A long drive today will take us to where our trekking begins. This is an excellent time to sit back, relax, and take in the sights of the changing countryside; rivers, terraced farmlands, and views of the stunning Himalayas. Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse.

Just before reaching Manang, at Tal, we cross a bridge and then follow the trail through terraced farmlands, by waterfalls and on to Koto Village before arriving at Dharapani, one of the largest villages in the Manang Valley. We will stay here overnight in a guesthouse.

Today is a much harder day on the trail as we ascend along some treed ridges on our way to Chame. Instead of always looking down, we should look up to where we will see some massive snowy peaks: Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). There is also a therapeutic natural spring on the trail where we can stop, sit back and relax our tired muscles. Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse.

Today we walk through a steep narrow valley where we have our first view of Paungda Danda, an enormous curved rock face soaring 1500m up from the river bed. From here we can see Annapurna II and Pisang Peak. We will then descend to Manang Valley through a beautiful landscape. Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse in Pisang.

The trail heads higher today to Ghyaru Village. Along the trail, you will have some lovely views of Annapurna II and other snow-clad peaks, as well as the glacier of Annapurna IV – that is clearly visible from Ghyaru. We will stop for a lunch break at Ghyaru and then continue on to Ngawal. Once more we must remember to look skyward where you will see the impressive Pisang and Annapurna peaks. You will know Ngawal village is close once you reach the Mani wall and the fluttering Tibetan prayer flags. At Ngawal we can gaze down to Humde Village. We then head down to the villages of Bhakra and Braga before coming to Manang where we will stay in a guesthouse overnight.

It is strongly recommended by health experts to stay active when spending time acclimatizing. We will take a short trek to Bhojo Gumba – a monastery or to Gangapurna Lake. We can also trek to Vraga Village where we can pay a visit to the Himalayan Rescue Association who can enlighten us about the condition of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Tonight we will stay at a guesthouse in Manang.

This morning we leave Manang and then cross the river before coming to Tenki Village, then head up the Marsyangdi Valley passing several small villages, such as Ghunsa, through some scrubby terrain while heading higher. We will also observe yak and mountain horses grazing on the high alpine pastures before reaching Yak Kharka where we will stay overnight at a guesthouse.

After passing the last settlement, Lear, the trail heads higher and we have some great views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, Cloche, and a close up view of Chuli Peak. The terrain becomes more rugged and devoid of vegetation as we head higher. We continue past Thorong Phedi after a lunch break. The zigzag trail takes us to Upper Phedi or High Camp where there are several teahouses and a lodge. We will stay here overnight.

Today is one of the highlights of this trek as we cross one of the highest passes in the world, Thorong La Pass. We cross from east to west, from Manang to Muktinath, which is a safer and easier route than crossing from the other direction. In order to reach the pass early in the day, and avoid the high winds, we have to get up around 3 a.m. Once at the pass the effort will be well worth it as you will have some really stunning views over the nearby mountains. After a photo session, we will then descend to the valley floor and head down to Muktinath for the night.

Today we descend 1,200 meters to the Kaligandaki River valley floor, with a short break at the tiny settlement of Ekle Bhatti - meaning a lonely teahouse. The valley gets very windy in the afternoons as we head to Jomsom and then on to Marpha, a quaint village with whitewashed houses, paved streets and many well kept lodges. Here you will have time to try the local apple products like cider, brandy, and juice that this area from Kagbeni to Larjung is famous for. We will stay overnight at Marpha.

This morning we follow along the banks of the Kaligandaki River downstream until we arrive at Tukuche Village situated beneath the lofty Tukuche, Dhaulagiri and Nilgiri’s glacier that heads down from Dhaulagiri east face. We next come to Larjung Village and cross the river before heading back up to the tree-line where we trek through pine, oak and rhododendron forests. The trail then heads back to the river near Kalopani Village. We cross a suspension bridge over the roaring Kali Gandaki River near Kalopani. Kalopani offers excellent views of Mt.Annapurna I, Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri high above the surrounding forests. We then have a short downhill trek to Lete Village where we will stay overnight.

Today we descend from the more rugged arid alpine regions through pine and other conifer forests as we head down the valley between the massive Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. The trail takes us through Ghasa Village with breathtaking views of the snowy peaks and into a cooler climate. Just down from Ghasa is the southernmost tip of the region inhabited by the Thakali people. The trail then heads down from the hillsides heading into the sub-tropical regions before reaching Tatopani (meaning hot water in Nepali). On the trail we can see the cascading Rupsi waterfalls. The hot springs at Tatopani are on the banks of the Kali Gandaki River. We will stay here overnight.

Today we climb 1670 meters, quite hard going, and pass through more cultivated farmland and their terraced fields. We head up through magnolia and rhododendron forests (most spectacular in spring time) and on the trail have some beautiful panoramic view of the mountains. Tonight we stay at Ghorepani that also boasts of some very special views of the Annapurna Ranges and Machapuchare (fish tail) -  one of the few unclimbed peaks in Nepal due to its religious status as home to Lord Shiva.

This morning we are up before sunrise so as to reach Poon Hill as the sun comes up over the mountains. It is about an hour trek to reach Poon Hill (3,210m) where the views are out of this world!  The mountains are radiant in the pristine light of the morning, reflecting various changing colors of the snow-white peaks. After madly snapping photos we will head back down to Ghorepani (2960m) for breakfast. Leaving Ghorepani we ascend along mountain ridges, through rhododendron and pine forests before arriving at Deurali (2,960m). We then descend further and come to a cross-road at Banthanti and then head to Tadapani. We will stay the night here at a guesthouse.

The trail today heads down a steep hill through rhododendron forests before reaching a mostly Gurung village not far from Chomrong Village (2,140m) where we will stay overnight at a guesthouse.

This morning we head down to Chomrong Khola (river) and then climb up to Khuldighar (2,380m) that was previously an Annapurna Conservation Area check point. A little further from here we descend a steep rocky trail through bamboo near the bottom of the gorge while remaining on the west side of the river. Once again we head through bamboo and rhododendron forests until we reach Dovan. We will stay overnight at a guesthouse.

Today we head up through the rhododendron forest alongside the Modi Khola (river) to Himalaya Hotel (2,920m). After a lunch break on the way, we head to Hinku Cave which used to be a landmark for the earlier Annapurna I expeditions when it was used as a camp and a supply depot. We then ascend through the jungle trail to reach Deurali (3,200m) where we will stay overnight.

Today we head up to ABC and on the way, we pass Hinko Cave, Deurali, and Machapuchare Base Camp before arriving at Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) (4,130m). At this altitude, you will have stunning clear, and unobstructed views over the surrounding peaks. This is definitely another opportunity to get your camera out! We will stay here at a guesthouse overnight.

This morning we take the same route we took getting to ABC, and descend an incredible 1,700 meters down to the banks of the Modi Khola (river) and on to Bamboo (2,345m) where we will stay at a guesthouse for the night.

Once again we backtrack and take the trail back to Chomrong, first passing Khuldighar and then on through rhododendron and bamboo forests. There is a very steep descent to Chomrong and to Jhinu Danda where after arriving we can sit in the hot springs and relax. We will stay here overnight at a guesthouse.

From Jhinu Danda we follow along the banks of the Modi Khola for around 4.5 hours until we arrive at Birethanti. The trek today is considered to be the most relaxing and enjoyable of the entire trek. It is more like a gentle walk than what we have previously experienced. From Nayapul we will drive back to Pokhara. Once we have checked in at our hotel in Pokhara we plan to take a boat trip to Barahi Temple, located on a small island in the middle of Phewa Tal (lake).

This morning we head back to Kathmandu and are on arrival taken to our hotels in Thamel. You can spend the remainder of the day exploring Kathmandu or just wander around Thamel and sit in a café or bar and celebrate the successful completion of your adventure in the Annapurna Conservation Area.

Today your trip to this mountainous country ends. A Sherpa Expedition and Trekking representative will take you to the airport at least three hours prior to your departure. On your flight home, you may be thinking and planning another great adventure into the mountains of Nepal.

The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Pokhara to Chame. The journey takes approximately 9 to 10 hours, passing through lush forests, terraced fields, and small villages. Along the way, you'll get a glimpse of the changing landscapes as you head deeper into the Annapurna region. Chame is a charming village that marks the official start of the Annapurna Circuit trek, offering spectacular mountain views.

After a restful night in Chame, you’ll begin your trek to Upper Pisang. The trail takes you through dense pine forests, and as you ascend, you’ll be treated to views of the Annapurna range and Pisang Peak. The trek is moderate, and you’ll pass through several small villages along the way. Upper Pisang offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, making it a rewarding stop for the day.

Today’s trek will lead you through the beautiful village of Ngawal, where you can enjoy its rich Tibetan culture. The route is mostly uphill, with the path winding through small villages, past fields, and offering stunning views of Annapurna II, III, and IV. Reaching Manang is a significant milestone as it’s a key point to acclimatize before continuing to higher altitudes. The trek is challenging, but the views make it worthwhile.

This day is reserved for rest and acclimatization. It's essential to allow your body to adjust to the altitude before pushing higher into the mountains. You can take a short hike to the nearby Ice Lake or visit the Lama Cave for a more cultural experience. The day helps prepare you for the upcoming challenging climbs while ensuring a safer trek ahead.

After your rest day, you’ll start trekking towards Yak Kharka, which sits at an altitude of 4,200 meters. The trek is relatively short, giving you enough time to acclimatize further. The route passes through alpine meadows and small settlements, with a gradual ascent. The views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna are remarkable along the way.

The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is shorter but steeper. You will pass through barren landscapes, where the altitude starts to feel more pronounced. Thorong Phedi is a small settlement located at the base of Thorong La Pass, which is the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. Prepare for the ascent the next day as you rest here.

Today is the most challenging and exhilarating day of the trek. You’ll wake up early and begin the climb to Thorong La Pass, the highest point on the Annapurna Circuit at 5,416 meters. The ascent is steep and can be strenuous, but reaching the top offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Afterward, you’ll descend to the sacred town of Muktinath, known for its spiritual significance. This day is a monumental achievement on the trek.

After a long day of trekking, you’ll take a drive from Muktinath to Tatopani, a town known for its natural hot springs. The drive takes about 6-7 hours, and during this journey, you'll descend into lower altitudes and witness the drastic change in landscape from barren high-altitude terrain to lush greenery. Once in Tatopani, you can relax and soak in the hot springs to rejuvenate your body.

From Tatopani, you’ll begin trekking towards Ghorepani. The day involves a long climb, but it’s filled with beautiful views and the opportunity to pass through local villages. As you trek, you’ll witness the landscape transition from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. Ghorepani offers incredible views of the Annapurna range, and it’s a great spot for the next day's hike to Poon Hill.

On this day, you’ll wake up early for a hike to Poon Hill, one of the best vantage points in the region. The sunrise views over the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare peaks are breathtaking. After taking in the views, you’ll continue your trek to Tadapani. The path takes you through rhododendron forests and small settlements, offering great views along the way.

Today’s trek leads you through beautiful forests, crossing small streams and passing by traditional villages. The path is mostly uphill, and you’ll gain altitude as you make your way to Upper Sinuwa. The trek is long, but the sense of accomplishment is rewarding once you reach the village, offering serene mountain views.

From Upper Sinuwa, you’ll trek to Deurali, passing through the beautiful Bamboo forest. The climb is steady, and as you approach Deurali, you’ll experience the increasing remoteness of the region. Deurali serves as a gateway to the Annapurna Base Camp, and the views of the surrounding peaks, including Machapuchare, are breathtaking.

This is the day you reach the iconic Annapurna Base Camp. The trail takes you through moraines and glaciers as you ascend to the base camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most stunning mountain views in the world. The sight of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and other peaks will leave you in awe. It’s a moment to cherish as you’ve reached one of the most coveted trekking destinations.

After spending some time at Annapurna Base Camp, it’s time to descend. The trek back to Sinuwa involves retracing your steps, but this time, the views will be different as you make your way down. The descent is relatively quicker, but you’ll still pass through the beautiful landscapes and charming villages that you saw earlier in the trek.

On the final day of your trek, you’ll descend to Matque and take a drive back to Pokhara. The drive offers one last opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery of the region. Arriving back in Pokhara marks the end of your incredible Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp trek, where you can relax and reflect on the adventure.