Trek Overview
The Annapurna Circuit trek is globally renowned as one of the most diverse and thrilling trekking loops. The trail guides you along the Marsyangdi River valley into the high-altitude trans-Himalayan region of Manang. Here, you will explore villages steeped in Tibetan-influenced Buddhist culture and make an optional side trip to pristine Tilicho Lake (4,919m), one of the highest lakes in the world. The ultimate challenge and highlight of the journey is crossing the formidable Thorong La Pass (5,416m), before descending to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath and into the windswept Kali Gandaki valley.
Trek Route Map
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Thamel. The rest of the day is spent on trek preparation, equipment checks, permit processing, and a welcome briefing with your guide. Overnight in Kathmandu (1,400m).
A long but scenic 10-11 hour drive (238km) takes us from Kathmandu through Besisahar and along the Marsyangdi River valley all the way to Chame (2,670m), the administrative headquarters of Manang district. The road passes waterfalls, terraced hillsides, and lush green valleys.
We pass through pine forests and walk under the dramatic curved rock face of Bhratang (often called Heaven's Gate). We then cross a suspension bridge to reach Lower Pisang village, which offers splendid views of the Annapurna range. Approx. 4-5 hrs, 9km.
Trekkers can choose between the lower route or the upper route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. The upper route is more challenging but offers spectacular panoramas of Annapurna II, III, and Gangapurna. Manang welcomes us with traditional Tibetan-style stone houses and chortens. Approx. 6-7 hrs, 15km.
A rest and acclimatization day in Manang before crossing the high pass. We hike up to Ice Lake (4,600m) for superb panoramic views of Gangapurna, Annapurna III, and the surrounding glaciers, then return to Manang for the night. You can also visit the HRA altitude sickness clinic. Approx. 6-8 hrs, 16km.
Branching off the main circuit loop toward Tilicho Lake, we head west through Khangsar village and climb to Siri Kharka (4,000m), a scenic resting point with open views of the Tilicho massif and surrounding high terrain. Approx. 4-5 hrs, 9km.
We continue through the dry, landslide-prone area to reach Tilicho Base Camp (4,150m), situated at the base of the massive Tilicho Peak. We rest early tonight to prepare for the high-altitude lake hike tomorrow. Approx. 3-4 hrs, 6km.
An early morning climb takes us to the spectacular, pristine Tilicho Lake (4,920m), one of the highest lakes in the world. Surrounded by glaciers and Tilicho Peak, its deep blue waters are an unforgettable sight. After spending time at the lake, we descend back to Siri Kharka for the night. Approx. 6-7 hrs, 12km.
We rejoin the main Annapurna Circuit route and climb gradually to Yak Kharka (4,050m), a high-altitude grazing area. The landscape here is stark and beautiful, with views of Chulu peaks and the upper Marsyangdi valley. Approx. 4-5 hrs, 10km.
We make a slow, steady climb to Thorong Phedi (4,525m), crossing a suspension bridge and passing through dramatic highland terrain. We rest at the tea houses at the foot of the pass to prepare for tomorrow's long crossing. Approx. 4-5 hrs, 6.5km.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day. We start around 3:00 AM, climbing steadily for several hours to reach the summit of Thorong La Pass (5,416m). After celebrating at the pass, we make a steep, long descent to the sacred pilgrimage site of Muktinath (3,760m). Approx. 9-10 hrs, 16km.
We visit the sacred Muktinath Temple in the morning before heading down to Jomsom via jeep. From Jomsom, a scenic 8-9 hour drive (183km) takes us along the Kali Gandaki valley to Pokhara (800m). Enjoy a comfortable evening by the lake.
A scenic 25-minute flight takes us from Pokhara back to Kathmandu. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner in Thamel featuring traditional Nepalese cuisine.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu according to your flight schedule for your departure. Depart with unforgettable memories of the Annapurna massif.
What's Included
- All internal transportation, including Jomsom-Pokhara flight tickets
- Accommodation and three daily meals during the 14-day trek
- Licensed, English-speaking guide and experienced porters
- TIMS card and Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) permits
- Standard hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara (with breakfast)
What's Excluded
- International flights and Nepal entry visa fees
- Personal trekking gear (clothing, boots, sleeping bag, down jacket)
- Hot showers, Wi-Fi, and electronic battery charging fees at lodges
- High-altitude travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage (mandatory)
- Tips and gratuities for guides and porters
Important Information
Preparing for Thorong La Pass: Temperatures at Thorong La Pass (5,416m) can drop as low as -10°C (14°F). Windproof outerwear, heavy thermal layers, and proper winter gloves/hats are absolutely essential.
Insurance Policy: You must obtain a comprehensive travel insurance policy covering emergency helicopter rescue up to 6,000 meters before arrival.
Physical Health: Due to the extreme altitude, this trek is physically demanding. We do not recommend this itinerary to individuals with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions.
Photo Gallery
Ice Lake, Day 5
Tilicho Lake, Day 8
Thorong La Pass, Day 11
Muktinath Temple, Day 12What Trekkers Say
★★★★★
"Tilicho Lake and Thorong La in the same trip is hard to beat. The acclimatization schedule in Manang was well thought out and nobody in our group had altitude problems on the pass."
★★★★★
"The diversity of this trek amazed me — lush forests near Chame, the arid Manang valley, the highest pass I've ever crossed, then the holy temple at Muktinath. TerraBlaze's guide was outstanding throughout."