Arrive in Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal, where ancient temples blend with modern life. After a warm welcome at the airport, transfer to your hotel and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore Thamel’s vibrant streets, visit the Boudhanath Stupa, or enjoy a Nepali meal at a rooftop café. This evening, rest and prepare for your trek.

Embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani, the starting point of your trek. The journey winds along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi Rivers, passing terraced fields, hillside villages, and lush valleys. Dharapani is a charming mountain settlement with traditional stone houses and prayer wheels, marking the gateway into the Annapurna region.

Your trek begins along the Marsyangdi River, winding through forests of pine and oak. The trail passes villages like Bagarchhap and Timang, with views of Lamjung Himal and Annapurna II. As you climb higher, the air cools and landscapes open wider. Chame, the district headquarters of Manang, greets you with apple orchards and hot springs.

The trail follows the Marsyangdi River through forests, suspension bridges, and rocky cliffs. Gradually ascending, you’ll reach Pisang, a picturesque village with traditional Tibetan-style houses and stunning views of Annapurna II, III, and Pisang Peak. Explore the local monastery and enjoy the mountain serenity.

Leaving Pisang, the trail offers two routes: a lower valley trail or the higher, more scenic route via Ghyaru. Both lead to Manang, a culturally rich village nestled in a wide valley. Manang is known for its Tibetan Buddhist culture, monasteries, and dramatic mountain backdrop. Evening views of Gangapurna Glacier and Tilicho Peak are unforgettable.

A full day is set aside for acclimatization. You may hike to Gangapurna Lake, visit the ancient Manang Gompa, or explore surrounding villages like Braga. The day helps your body adjust to the altitude while immersing you in local culture.

The trail branches off from the main Annapurna Circuit route, gradually climbing toward Siri Kharka. You’ll pass alpine meadows and yak pastures with incredible views of Chulu Peaks and Gangapurna. Siri Kharka is a quiet settlement with a handful of lodges, offering a peaceful stopover.

Today’s trail is rugged and narrow, winding along scree slopes with dramatic views of the Annapurna massif. After several hours of steady walking, you’ll reach Tilicho Base Camp, the staging point for tomorrow’s hike. Rest early for the big day.

A highlight of the trek, today you climb to Tilicho Lake, one of the world’s highest alpine lakes. The turquoise water is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, creating a breathtaking scene. After exploring, you descend carefully back to Siri Kharka for overnight stay.

The trail rejoins the main Annapurna route, gradually ascending to Yak Kharka. This area is known for grazing yaks and wide-open pastures. The air is thinner, so it’s important to walk steadily and hydrate well.

A short but demanding day as you climb to Thorong Phedi, the base of the Thorong La Pass. The settlement is small, with lodges catering to trekkers preparing for the next day’s big climb. Early rest is essential.

Today is the most challenging but rewarding day of the trek. Starting early, you ascend to Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit. The summit is adorned with prayer flags and offers awe-inspiring views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Mustang. After celebrating, descend to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage site revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.

A gradual descent brings you to Jomsom, the district headquarters of Mustang. Known for its strong winds and dramatic landscapes, Jomsom has a mix of traditional culture and modern comforts.

A short scenic flight takes you to Pokhara, Nepal’s most beautiful lakeside city. Spend the day relaxing at Phewa Lake, visiting Davis Falls, or exploring the bustling Lakeside district.

A morning flight returns you to Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for shopping, sightseeing, or enjoying a farewell dinner with cultural music and dance.

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure. With memories of Tilicho Lake, Thorong La, and Himalayan landscapes, your journey concludes.

Departure from Kathmandu