The Annapurna Circuit is one of the greatest treks of the world. The most diverse trek in Nepal, it offers a variety of cultures, terrain and vistas that are unmatched.
Trip Description:
This classic 3-week adventure leads you through a diverse range of mountain cultures, scenery and climatic zones. From the stark topography of the Tibetan plateau, to the Kali Gandaki gorge and the dramatic scenery of the Annapurna massif, we are spoilt for choice in a deeply beautiful region steeped in history, culture and tradition.
After a few days in Kathmandu, we board our minibus and drive to the road head at Besisahar - and to the lush terraced fields of the lower Marsayangdi River valley. We set trail here and follow this ancient river as it cuts through the main Himalayan chain. Bamboo and tropical vegetation accompany us as we ascend through the verdant mid-hills into alpine forest and then up higher into alpine meadows. Soon the temperate climate gives way to the arid desert conditions in the Manang district, home to centuries old Buddhist temples and medieval villages.
We continue in the footsteps of the ancient salt traders over the Throrung La pass. At 5,416 m it is one of the highest trekking passes on earth, but the views from the top of Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) are just stupendous. On the way down to the Kali Gandaki gorge, we visit the temple complex in Muktinath, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It is a favorite pilgrimage destination for many of the faithful.
Continuing our descent, we arrive at Kagbeni and the junction of the Jhong Khola and Kali Gandaki Rivers (2,800 m). We are now in the deepest valley in the world. To the east, Annapurna (8,031 m) sits astride the gorge, and on the west Dhaulagiri towers at 8,167 m. Like sentinels of the Kali Gandaki River, they guide us south towards the lush lowlands.
We descend through pine and rhododendron forest to natural hot springs to soak away the dust of the trail and revitalize ourselves. We make a short ascent of Poon Hill for great sunrise views at the end of our trek, and remember with great satisfaction that we have just circumnavigated one of the most breath-taking mountain ranges on earth.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu. Check into hotel
Day 2: Cultural tour of Kathmandu. At leisure p.m.
Day 3: Drive to Besisahar 6 hours. Trek to Kundi (790 m)
Day 4 - 9: Trek up to Manang (3,500 m)
Day 10 - 13: Acclimatisation, then over Thorung La and onto Muktinath (3,800 m)
Day 14 - 15: Descend via Marpha (2,665 m) to Kalopani (2,530 m)
Day 16: Descend to Tatopani and bath in hot springs (1,189 m)
Day 17: Ascend to Ghorepani (2,775 m)
Day 18: Ascend Poon Hill (3,200 m) for sunrise views, then descend to Hill
Day 19: Descend to Nayapul (1,030 m). Drive to Pokhara and end of trek party
Day 20: Flight to Kathmandu, at leisure p.m.
Day 21: Fly home
Accommodation:
Lodges on trek - 16 nights
Kathmandu hotel - 3 nights
Pokhara hotel - 1 night
Duration: 21 Days / 20 Nights
Accommodation: Hotels / Mountain lodges
Transport: Minibus Kathmandu - Besisahar. Flight Pokhara - Kathmandu.
Activities: Trekking
Group Sizes: Min 4 / Max 12
Grading: Demanding
Max altitude - 5,500 m
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Cost Includes:
- Flight Pokhara - Kathmandu
- All minibus transfers
- ACAP entry fee
- Lodge accommodation on trek
- Food on trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Medical kit
- Sirdar/guide, cooks, porters
- Cultural tour of Kathmandu
- B&B in Kathmandu and Pokhara hotel
Cost Excludes:
- Flights to/from Nepal
- Entry visa
- Airport and departure taxes
- Alcoholic & aerated beverages
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Nepal
Hiking & Trekking
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