Overview

The classic trek in the Annapurna region is the Annapurna Circuit. The complete circuit has only been possible since the mid 1980’s when the Manang area was officially opened up to non-Nepali visitors. For an all round experience of the scenery and cultures of Nepal this trek has a lot to offer. Starting in the lush Marshyangdi valley, that separates the Annapurna range from that of Manashlu,the scenery is composed of luch cultivated fields with dense forests on either side. In the winter season, orange trees are laden with fruit and fragment frangipani blossoms cast their scent along the trails. As you travel higher the valley becomes more rugged until the villages and forests finally give way to the arid hills of Manang. The thorong La pass, at 5416 meters, marks the high point of the trek after which the trail joins the Kali Gandaki river that flows through the deepest gorge on earth.

This is a challenging trek that is not without some risks. The crossing of Thorong La can be dangerous at times, especially during unexpected snowfall so potential trekkers must make sure that they are well prepared and equipped for all eventualities. The trek can be completed in a minimum of 16 days, starting in Kathmandu and finishing in Pokhara. If a few extra days are allowed for it is then possible to enjoy several of the possible side trips and add immeasurably to the experience.

Most trekkers start the trek by taking the bus from Kathmandu to Besisahar. These days the journey is accomplished in around five or 6 hours which allows a few hours trekking on the first day. The trail from Besisahar follows the partly constructed road as far as the small market town of Kuldi. This road can be avoided by crossing the river below Besisahar and trekking along the east bank of the river rejoining the main trail at Bulbule.

The first few days of the trek follow the Marshyangdi through scattered farming communities inhabited by a mixture predominantly composed of Gurungs but with a sizable number of Brahmin communities. The crops range from rice and wheat at the lower elevations to corn, millet and barely as the altitude increases. Above the valley floor the hills are cloaked in forest with the occasional clearing indicating human settlements. Higher still, the snowy peaks of the Annapurna and Manashlu ranges dominate the skyline. A feature of this section of the trek is the number of high water falls that cascade down into the main river. The valley rises slowly so altitude sickness is rarely a problem at this stage.

After four days on the trail the river, which has been flowing from the north changes its course and flows from the west. At this point the landscape changes with steep rocky gorges on each side and large stands of pine making up the forest cover. By the time the district headquarter of Chame has been passed the hills are becoming more and more barren and the people predominantly Manangba. Look for a number of ancient temples, some of which represent the pre- Buddhist,Bon religion.

The tree line is reached a few hours before arriving at Manang where a compulsory rest day should be taken for acclimatization to the increasing altitude. There are a number of possible side trips from Manang that can be taken on the acclimatization day. Perhaps the most spectacular is to the west, across the river and up to the Gangapurna glacier with its deep blue lake formed by the melting glacial ice. The Himalayan Rescue Association clinic is located in Manang village and holds afternoon awareness lectures for trekkers warning of the dangers of AMS. These lectures are well worth attending.

From Manang, the trail passes through high alpine pastures until the small cluster of teahouses at Thorong Phedi is reached. An early morning start from here will allow you to reach Thorong La bby mid morning and then start the descent across the scree slope
To Muktinath before the afternoon cloud sweeps in. This whole section has no permanent settlements and shelter is hard to find. For safety , trekkers should never travel alone this section.

Muktinath , a famed pilgrims site for both Buddhists and Hindus, is a first major settlement reached after the crossing of Thorong La. Be sure to visit the temples here and especially look for the eternal flame, fuelled by natural gas, which can be found in the small Buddhist temple below the main shrine.

From Muktinath the views to the west are now of the Dhaulagiri range while to the north can be seen the arid hills of upper Mustang. The trail leads down through villages inhabited by people of Tibetan stock until it reaches the banks of the Kali Gandaki River, the home of the Thakali people, A further four days trekking down through this , the deepest valley on earth , brings you to the road head at Beni fro where busses to Pokhara can be found. Settlements of particulars interest below Muktinath are Jomsom with its Airport, a possible exit point to Pokhara, Marpha with its fascinating medieval architecture designed to ward off the fierce winds that blow daily up the gorge and Tatopani with its hot springs.

There are the numbers of possible side trips that can be combined with the Annapurna Circuit. Either from the Manang side or from below Jomsom it is possible to trek up to the high-altitude lake at Tilicho. You must allow at least four days for this trek and be fully sufficient. Also on the eastern side of Kali Gandaki there is a trail that leads to the original North Annapurna Base Camp that was used by French expedition that first scaled the peak. On the western side of the valley treks to hidden valley via Dhampus pass and to the Dhaulagiri icefall are also possible options. All of these side trips are suitable only for fit and experienced parties who are fully self – sufficient.

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2: Drive Kathmandu to Besisahar by private car
Day 3: Besisahar to Bahundanda Trek
Day 4: Bahun danda to Chamje Trek
Day 5: Chamje to Bagarchhap Trek
Day 6: Bagarchhap to Chame Trek
Day 7: Chame to Pisang Trek
Day 8: Pisang to manang Trek
Day 9: Acclimatisation day in Manang
Day 10: Manang to Letdar Trek
Day 11: Letdar to Thorung Phedi Trek
Day 12: Thorung Phedi –Thorong La Pass- Muktinath Trek ( Thorong Pass 5416m)
Day 13: Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni Trek/drive
Day 14: Jomsom-Pokhara by flight and half day tours
Day 15: Pokhara-Kathmandu by private car
Day 16: Departure transfer

Itinerary Detail

Day 01: Arrive Kathmandu

Day 02 Kathmandu to Besisahar (823m) approx 6 hrs drive. 
After a long drive from Kathmandu, following wild hairpin ends, we arrive at small village of Dumre (585m). Then we drive through garble road covering around 30 kms slowly gaining elevation, getting good views of Boudha Himal (6736m) and Himalchuli (7968m) and to Besisahar (823m) our first night halt.
 
Day 03 Besishar to Bahundanda (1311m)
The trail continues northwards up the valley, crossing several suspension bridges and passing several beautiful waterfalls. Above us tower the peaks of LAMJUNG (6859m). The village Bahundanda supports the last shops of any size before Jomsom.
 
Day 04 Bahundanda to Chamje (2713m) 
Today, we descend to the Marshyangdi to access the river level before deciding our route. If water level is low, we can cross on a makeshift bridge to the east bank. If not, we continue on the west bank climbing high over a ridge, to rejoin the east bank trail over a suspension bridge at Sange. We then climb high again, through rhododendron and pine forest. The valley is now very deep and steep gorge. Overnight halt at Chamje.
 
Day 05 Chamje to Bagarchap (2164m) 
We climb steadily all day long Tal, a small village at the foot of a large waterfall. We are now entering the Manang district. After leaving Tal, we cross a large bridge to the village of Dharapani (1943m) where we stop to enjoy a cup of tea. We then climb through forest to Bagarchap the first village on the trek with typical Tibetan architecture.
 
Day 06 Bagarchap to Chame (2713m) 
The trail is now bearing west, Manaslu forming a splendid backdrop and Annapurna II (7937m) appearing occasionally to the south. We continue through forests of pine and fir, resting at the hamlets or Charku, Thangje and Kuparkot. As we continue on the trail, views of the Annapurna improve dramatically.
 
Day 07 Chame to Pisang (3185m)
We continue crossing the river all day, passing through the narrow and steep sided gorge nearing the village of Pisang (3183m). We top a ridge to get our first views of the Manang valley, a wide N - shaped valley hanging between two lines of snow peaks.
 
Day 08 Pisang to Manang (3351m) 
Descending to the broad forested valley floor, we follow the trail through the flat valley, past a small STOL airstrip, under construction, cross the river once again to Braga (3472m) and en-route visiting Braga Monastery. This is a village of about 290 houses stacked on top of each other, flat roofs forming verandahs.
 
Day 09 Manang (3351m)
Rest and acclimatization day at Manang and today we spend the whole day exploring Manang. The village consists of about 500 flat roofed houses and is picturesquely set amongst spectacular scenery: Annapurna II, Annapurna III, (7855m), Gangapurna (7485m) to the south: Tilicho (7134m) and the Grand Barrier, to the west; Chulu west (6420m) and Chulu East (6558m) to north.
 
Day 10 Manang to Churl Ladder ( 3868m)
We branch away from the Marshyangdi river steadily climbing in to district alpine areas. Keep your eyes open for Thar and Ghoral mountain sheep.
 
Day 11 Churl Ladder to Thorang Phedi (4442m) 
Today we ascending about 3 hours then descending about 45 minutes to cross the Jarsang river, we climb to a small grassy valley and overnight halt.
 
Day 12 Thorang Phedi to Muktinath (3798m)
Though the crossing of the pass is not technically difficult, we take it slowly to take into account the complications of altitude and possible snow. After about 4 hours, we reach the top (5416m) and enjoy some absolutely stunning high Himalayan scenery. The entire Annapurna range in the south, the Mukut and Mustang Himal to the west, and the incredibly deep Kali Gandaki valley and the peaks of Throungtse (6542m) and Chulu to the north. The descend is steep and rough but we soon have excellent views of Dhaulagiri (8167m).
 
Muktinath (3798m) is an important pilgrimage spot for both Hindus and Buddhist Gompa and pagoda style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The most interesting aspect of the area, however, is the spot where burning of natural gas issued from the rock from the same place as a small spring. Earth, air, fire, water an important religious combination.
 
Day 13 Muktinath to Jomsom (2713m)  
The trail descends very quickly to the valley floor over 1538m below. The descend is through a dramatic arid landscape and continues to Jomsom (2713m) where you will have lunch. overnight halt.
 
Day 14 Jomsom-Pokhara(800m) 
Morning flight to Pokhara, transfer and half day city tour in the afternoon. On your own you can do boating in Phewa lake/walking tour in lake side market/shops/restaurant etc

Day 15 Pokhara-Kathmandu(1300m)
After breakfast drive to Kathmandu/6 hour/200km by private car

Day 16: Departure 

Date And Cost

AVAILABILITY OPTIONS

Cost Includes

1. Arrival / departure transfers
2. 3 Star hotel accommodations on twin sharing basis with breakfast in Kathmandu & Pokhara
3. Lodge accommodation on Trek area
4. English speaking trekking guide
5. Entrance fees & Permit
6. Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner in trekking
7. Porter
8. Private car for Kathmandu-Besisahar
9. Private car for Pokhara-Kathmandu
10. Air ticket Jomsom to Pokhara

Cost Excludes

Personal expenses, lunch & dinner in Kathmandu & Pokhara , telephone calls, laundry, bar bill
Domestic Airport Tax

Equipment List

Certain basic trekking equipment is essential on all routes I described in this site. Depending on the area and season, I will provide you with a comprehensive list of necessities. Many of the items on the list are available in Nepal. Here is some recommended Equipments List for trekking in Nepal Himalayas.

Clothing

Lightweight walking boots.
If new one is being bought, "walk them in" to avoid blisters. Also bring spare laces.
A pair of track shoes. To wear in the camp at night or when your boots are wet.
Warm jacket. Fiber fill or down should be adequate. This is especially essential during winter, from December to February.
A rainproof jacket with hood or a poncho. Get the one that is guaranteed waterproof.
Woolen shirts and thick sweaters. During winter months, December through February these items are essential.
Thick sweaters can be purchased in Kathmandu.
A pair of lightweight/ heavy weight trousers. Jeans are unsuitable to wear on treks. Cheap loose cotton pants are available in Kathmandu.
Heavyweight trousers are useful higher up in the mountains in the morning and at night.
Windproof/ waterproof trousers are necessary on all treks going above 10.00ft.
Thermal underwear. Which is excellent to sleep in at night in the winter months.
A tracksuit useful for wearing in camp and in the tent.
2 pair of loose fitting long shorts/skirts.
1 lightweight long sleeved -shirt is particularly suitable for avoiding sun burn.
A woolen hat to wear in the morning and at night. During winter it is an essential item.
A sunhat and ensure it has a wide brim to cover the face and neck.
A pair of gloves. Leather with lining and woolen are best.
1 pair of sandals to wear in the cities and in camp.
2 pairs of thin and 2 pair of thick woolen socks.
"Underwear" normal quantity and swimming costume, hankies.
Equipment & Accessories

Duffle bag or kit bag to carry to gear while trekking.
Daypack: This is a small rucksack to carry personal requirement for the day e.g. toilet items, camera, film towel, soap, a book etc.
Water bottle.
Snow glasses and sunglasses.
2-4 large plastic bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones.
6-10 smaller plastic bags to dispose garbage.
Wallet and /or money belt with compartment for coins.
Toiletries with large and small towels.
Toilet paper can buy in Kathmandu and some villages in the mountains.
Small headlamp and/ or torch with spare batteries and bulbs candles and lighter to burn toilet paper.
Snow gaiters essential during wither and all treks going over at other times.
An umbrella (optional), which is quite useful to as a sunshade and useful when it rains.
Reading materials, camera and film, game items (optional), note book, rubber band, pen and pencil, envelopes, a diary, a calendar, a pocket knife, binoculars (optional), a small pillow or headrest (optional). Thermoses (optional) - an inflatable sleeping mat, trekking map, adequate quantities of passport photographs.

Note: What ever mentioned above, we can suggest important thing while finalising booking.

Altitude Sickness

When trekking in Nepal Himalayas “Altitude related Problems” are the important factors to be considered because
there is always a real danger of mild to serious problems related to altitude and it is important that trekkers
understand that they will be affected to a greater or lesser extent when they ascend to altitudes over about 3000
meters. Altitude sickness, often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and it means the effect of altitude on
those who ascend too rapidly to elevation above 3000 meters. The victim can develop severe symptoms very rapidly
if the mild effects are ignored.

We advise you to remember the following suggestion when you are on trekking in the high altitude areas above 3000
meters. The following are the basic symptoms of the altitude sickness and to avoid such sickness we recommend few
important points.

1. Basic Symptoms:
(I) Loss of appetite
(II) Sleep disturbance
(III) Difficult to pass urine

2. Medium Symptoms:
(I) Headache which is bad
(II) Irregular breathing
(III) Nausea
(IV) Mild weakness
 
3. Serious Symptoms:
(I) Slight swelling of hands and face
(II) Cannot stand upright without swaying while eyes are closed.
(III) Can hear gurgling sound in the chest.
(IV) Zero energy.
 
What to do about Altitude Sickness?
Altitude illness can be prevented by acclimatization; that is, by a graduate rate of ascent (not more than 400 –
500 meters), allowing sufficient rest at various intermediate altitudes. The dry air of the mountains tends to
dehydrate you so an increased fluid intake is necessary. Try to drink at least four liters of water a day.
On the trail you can drink hot garlic soup that will help you to some extent. When we reach to our destination
it is better to make some hiking up to a bit higher point and come down to the camp or hotel. This is a really
good way to get acclimatization. You may take Diamox 250mg tablets( as suggested by physician)  the night before
flying / going to altitude. Sometimes the symptoms often disappear and the trek can be resumed.

If you feel obviously suffering from the serious symptoms of AMS then descent should not be delayed even if it
night. In such case, should an emergency situation arise, horse, or porter will be arranged;or we carry you and run to lower (descend) altitudes. There is communication facility at Namche Bazaar; Doctors
at near by health post. Pigeon Travel & Tours (p) Ltd will arrange to hire Gammo bag upon request with extra cost. 

The hospital or the clinic will take fees or charges for such services. We can arrange for immediate evacuation,
by horse or helicopter, depending on the severity of the case.It is suggested all trekkers that to bring insurance
which cover helicoptor flight. It may cost you approximately Usd 3000-6000.
 cost