The Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trek in Nepal, presenting the aesthetic views and sights of the Annapurna region. It showers you with a myriad of fascinating conventions, mores, and modes of living. Multiplicity of Annapurna ranges, Nilgiri, Tilicho Peak, and Gangapurna among others, are real magic for the eyes to witness. Trek through rhododendron-laden tracks to far-flung villages and settlements. Encounter religious cloisters, chortens, and Gumbas scattered across the land. Walk under the Annapurna panorama as you cross high mountain passes and cover 80–85 km (50–53 miles) from the Dharapani, starting point of our Annapurna Trekking, to Muktinath. This classic trek is regarded as a moderately challenging journey, perfect for even novice trekkers. We, the Index Adventure Agency, present you with the best of Nepal, the Annapurna Circuit, in only 12 days.
Nepal Annapurna Circuit - A Moderate Trek
The Annapurna Circuit follows a splendid trail that goes through dense semi-tropical regions. Most noteworthy, experience the elation of changing landscapes decorated with striking natural pulchritude at every daring step. Likewise, enjoy the highland spectacles of the region and bask in the thrill of crossing fascinating mountain passes like the Thorong La. Circumbulate the region to expose yourself to thrilling mountain passes like no other! It is a journey that is rich in natural and Himalayan beauty, as well as the ethnic culture of the indigenous people. It is a journey that demands a visit at least once.
A moderate trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is characterized by its opulent Himalayan beauty at all times. From the twigs of the trees ornate with banners of colorful blessings to the religious chortens and Mani-walls that lie across the trail. The Annapurna round-trip is sure to be monumental.
Trek through the Manang Valley, a stunning Himalayan basin, and visit the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath Temple. Cross the high Himalayan pass of the Thorong La and bask in the natural beauty of the Kali Gandaki Gorge (The deepest one). Experience the richest-caste of Nepal, the Thakali people, in Jomsom.
Why Annapurna Circuit Trekking?
- Cross over Thorong La Pass, one of the world’s highest mountain passes
- Witness dramatic changes in the terrain from luscious woodland, alpine desert, to snowy boundaries
- Explore Green Lake (Miring Tso), a secluded alpine treasure
- Experience Manang’s Tibetan culture, yak herders, and prayer-flagged villages
- Taste local apple pie, fresh juice, and dried slices
- Enjoy locally made mountain delicacies from Thakali dal bhat to tsampa porridge
- Spot rare wildlife in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Manang Annapurna Circuit - An Arcadian Haven
A popular rest day of the Annapurna Circuit stop, Manang. Located in Gandaki Pradesh of Nepal, and the northern part of the Annapurna region, specifically within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project. It is surrounded by Xizang (Tibetan Autonomous Region) to the north, Mustang (the 5th largest district) to the west, Kaski to the southbound, and Lamjung to the east. Some of the eminent monastery present in Manang are Braga Monastery, Milarepa Cave Monastery, and Pocho Gumba.
Monastery around Manang
Braga Gompa, an ancient monastery in the region, is assumed to be over tercentenary. The monastery houses an assortment of invaluable relics, including clay statues (figurines) of Buddhas and Lamas, and complete sets of Kangyur and Tengyur texts written in gold. , is a part of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
Another spiritual shrine associated with the mid-millennium age Tibetan Buddhist yogi and poet is Milarepa. This cave is said to hold the myth that Guru Milarepa spent 6 years musing in this gompa and attained enlightenment. Located just near the cliff of Braka Gompa and close to Mt. Annapurna, and a lauded detour for trekkers on the Manang Annapurna Circuit.
Hiking to the Ice Lake of Manang, Kicho Tal. This Tal is a gratifying diversion from Manang valley and a fruitful addition to our 12-day short Annapurna Circuit Trek. It is a challenging hike (10-12 km round trip) but holds the reward of a stunning high-altitude lake (often frozen) and panoramic views of the giants.
The Longest Acclaimed Thorong La Pass (5416m) - A Gorgeous Mountain Pass
The Thorong La Pass (5416m/17769m) is a significant and tough challenge of the trip, but it is the most-loved and beautiful pass in the Annapurna trekking region. It’s located between the Manang and Mustang districts. The trek can be started from both sides, but more than 80% of trekkers start from Manang; starting in a clockwise direction from Dharapani and ending at Muktinath due to altitude reasons. Mountain views of Annapurna ranges (II & IV), Gangapurna, Tilicho peak, Pisang Peak, Lamjung Himal, Chulu West, and Chulu East can be seen at first as we hike. As we descend Mount Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Hiunchuli, Thapa peaks, among others, become noticeable after the pass. Khatung Kang and Yakawa Kang peaks are the peaks that form the pass.
One surprising fact is that the mountain pass is even higher than Everest Base Camp (5,346m), but it is not as high as the EBC Trek. In ancient times, this pass was used as a Trading route between Nepal and Tibet; actively, it has become mainly a trekking route for travelers.
Nepal Tilicho Lake Trek-Highest Lake in the Globe
Tilicho Lake of Annapurna is a fabulous, frigid high-altitude lake in Nepal. Situated at 4,919 m high, it claims the fame of being the highest lake in the world after Ojas del Salado and surely for the jaw-dropping views. Tukuche, Manaslu, Hiunchuli, Dhaulagiri, fishtail, Annapurna South, I, II, III, and Tilicho Peaks are some of the prominent gigantic peaks seen from this site.
Discover the Gems with Expert Annapurna Circuit Trek Agency
Annapurna Tilicho Lake Trek
Looking for a more comprehensive and rewarding experience with side detours in the Annapurna Region? Then look no further; we present you a 15-day classic circuit route with a side trip to Tilicho Lake, a fabulous glacial lake and the world's most gorgeous high-altitude lake.
Nar and Phu Valley Trek with Annapurna
For a richer, off-the-beaten-path, and authentic experience, choose the isolated trail to Nar Phu Valley. We take a different path from Koto to reach this place. The Valley is inhabited by Tibetan settlers, also known as Khampas. Most of them are Ghale, Gurung, and Lama. Interact with the locals and know their way of life.
No matter which itinerary or how long days you choose, either you craft it and make it a Short Trek or Classic Annapurna with a touch of Ghorepani Poon Hill or side detours that few know. The Index family, a local trekking Agency of Nepal, is ready to arrange your itinerary, accommodations, and tours, making them flexible for you.
Annapurna Circuit Itinerary 12-day Overview
When you get to the airport, your adventure on the Annapurna Circuit Trek begins with Index Adventure Agency. A friendly member of our staff will greet you and then escort you to the hotel in Kathmandu.
Now, you'll drive through Besisahar and Chamje (Chyamche) with a stunning view of cascading waterfalls and greenery, high hills views to get to Dharapani by two modes of transportation (public bus up to Besisahar, and shared jeep to Dharapani). You will begin your foot journey from Dharapani on the 3rd day, pass by Koto, a juncture of two top treks in the Annapurna region (Nar Phu and Annapurna Circuit), and stay in Chame. You'll also pass through Upper Pisang, traveling along a scenic route that takes you through appealing towns and natural settings.
You'll get to Manang as you keep going. You'll take a day off here to get used to the high altitude and look around either Chongkor Viewpoint or Ice Lake. After that, you'll walk to Yak Kharka, where you'll spend the night before going to Thorong Phedi or Thorong High Camp (Depends on you).
From there, you'll go over the Thorong La Pass, a glamorous mountain pass at 5,416 meters high. The hike is tough, but the views are mindblowing and will take approximately 7–8 hours, but the views from the top are well worth it!
You'll go to Muktinath after you cross the pass and drive to Pokhara. But if we choose the trail to the south, we will enter the gateway of Mustang, Kagbeni (2810m). On day eleven, you'll drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu and finish your Annapurna Trek with us.
