Annapurna Circuit Trek - 14 Days

Your adventure starts from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal: a city that is heavily embroidered with history, culture, and chaos in equal measure. At Tribhuvan International Airport, on arrival, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and escorted to the hotel. This city has so many UNESCO-listed heritage sites such as those of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Pashupatinath Temple, which presents a glimpse into the spiritual side of Nepal. Thamel is a backpackers’ haven that one can visit, shop for last-minute trekking gear, sample local and international cuisines, or enjoy the ambiance of the city.

Once settled into your hotel, you will have a trek briefing session for the trek that is going to take place soon. If you’re interested, now you can either have a rest or go out to marvel at Durbar Square, whose ancient palaces and courtyards testify to the architectural grandeur of Nepal. The evening can be spent tasting a traditional Nepali dinner while indulging in the exciting sounds of folk music. Today is meant to adjust yourself slowly and prepare with the environment of Nepal before stepping onto the terrain this lifetime. An early night is advisable as the actual travel begins in the next morning.

The adventure kicks off in the morning with this scenic drive to Syange from Kathmandu via Besisahar, the official starting point of the Annapurna Circuit-the journey itself lasts about 7-8 hours and encounters winding mountain roads, terraced fields, and traditional villages giving you an inkling into rural Nepalese life. Leaving behind the chaotic life of Kathmandu, the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers flow alongside you, cutting through the verdant valleys. Besisahar, itself a busy town where trekkers gather, marks the point where a rugged off-road trail leads toward Syange, showcasing some stunning landscapes and waterfalls. 

This bumpy and somewhat adventurous drive to Syange may allow for quick refreshment stops at roadside tea houses. Syange is a tiny settlement perched just above the Marsyangdi River, the entrance of which is marked by one heck of a waterfall. You will sense the drop in altitude, as the air will now start feeling a bit fresh and invigorating, making you ready for trekking. Freshen up by taking an evening stroll nearby and interact with fellow trekkers for the preparation of the first day trek. After a suitably hearty meal, it’s suggested that you turn in early to prepare yourself for the next leg of the trek.

The trek officially starts at your departure from Syange over the suspension bridge that lets you cross the Marsyangdi River. The trail then climbs slowly through terraced fields and dense forests with stunning views of waterfalls cascading into deep gorges. Along the way to Jagat-a quaint village where you might find all stone houses-showing a strong Hindu and Buddhist influence, you might find tranquility in the beauty around you. The path keeps winding towards Chamje here, where the first views of the snow-peaked mountains appear. Eventually, the ascent becomes steeper as you scramble up rocky trails, often overtaken by lesser mule caravans that carry goods to high-altitude settlements. 

Thereafter, steep and arduous uphill hiking leads into Manang Zone; the landscape starts gaining a different view as being more alpine. The cool air smells sweetly of pine on the cool heavens above. You encounter small teahouses, other trekkers, and Gurung locals on the path. After trekking for hours, you will enter Dharapani, with influences from Tibetan and Nepalese cultures. Colorful flags will dance idly on the breeze, and you’d begin to see Mani walls—stone tablets with carved Buddhist prayers that symbolize entry into a Tibetan-based region.

Leaving Dharapani, the trail takes a gentle ascent amidst dense forests of pines and firs with studded spectacular views of the Annapurna range. The air turns crisp, and the Marsyangdi flowing in rhythmic measure is your companion trekking along. The trail passes through quaint villages such as Bagarchhap with traditional Tibetan-style houses along the trail, and soft Buddhist hymns are whispered from local monasteries. The majestic Annapurna II (7,937m) and Lamjung Himal (6,983m) now figure large on the horizon. 

The trail now meanders through luxuriant forests, emptying occasionally into clearings where breathtaking views of the mountains open up. You will pass by some smaller settlements such as Timang, where traces of Tibetan Buddhist culture abound with prayer wheels and fluttering prayer flags. The last bit of the trail to Chame involves climbing, but at least you will be rewarded with a cozy stay in this busy town, which is also the headquarters of the Manang District. Here you may want to dip in natural hot springs, visit local markets and eat a good meal while soaking in spectacular mountain views.

The route from Chame to Pisang is a changing landscape, from dense forests to wide-open valleys. The trail runs along the banks of the lovely Marsyangdi River to the magnificent rock face of Paungda Danda, a large curved slab of rock that rises almost 1,500 m above the river. The rock formation has great religious significance for the locals and is considered the gateway to the high-altitude region of Manang.

The alpine meadow-type vegetation is quite an indication of deteriorating out-washing. Open the mind to architectural changes: monumental stone houses built to withstand the hardships of mountain climates in Piang. Great vistas of the majestic Annapurna II, Annapurna III, and Annapurna IV welcome trekkers to their Pisang finale. Mingle in ancient Tibetan-style villages and visit an old monastery perched high on a hill overlooking the valley. Lower Pisang and Upper Pisang diverge here, and trekkers decide their routes for the following day according to the considerations of acclimatization and adventure.

There are two alternative routes on offer for the sixth day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days: the lower and easier route via Humde or the more uphill and challenging Upper Pisang route via Ghyaru and Ngawal. Although the upper route demands greater exertion, it is very highly recommended, affording sweeping panoramas of the Annapurna massif. The steep ascent to Ghyaru is well worth it as one will be able to enjoy captivating views of the dazzling, snow-capped peaks lying forever more towards the horizon. The scenery varies as we get closer to Manang; it becomes increasingly barren and desolate, almost resembling a high-altitude desert.

Manang is one of the largest villages in this area, lying in the shadow of Gangapurna (7,455m) and Annapurna III (7,555m). A lively place, it houses bakeries and cafes as well as shops for trekking gear and provides ample opportunity to rest and acclimatize. Anyone interested in learning about altitude sickness and its prevention should consider visiting the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic.

Acclimatization is crucial at this altitude if altitude sickness is to be avoided. A worthwhile acclimatization hike would be to Gangapurna Lake or the Praken Gompa monastery. Gangapurna Lake, a gorgeous turquoise glacial lake, provides amazing views under the looming ice walls of Annapurna. The monastery itself, standing high above the village, gives an insight into the spiritual life of the Buddhist monks in the area. 

Manang alone has cultural treats. As you walk its narrow alleyways, one meets local folk from the Gurung and Tibetan communities clad in traditional attire and going about their daily activities. Tibetan influence is apparent through prayer flags, Mani walls, and chortens. Evening hours could be spent resting, drinking lots of water, and preparing for the next high-altitude trek.

After departing from Manang, the trek proceeds gently upward through the alpine pastures dotted with scrubby juniper shrubbery. Bit by bit, as the altitude is gained, the oxygen thins, and one is advised to adopt a slower, steadier pace. The Marsyangdi River gradually drops from view and the path ascends toward Tenki, then onward to Yak Kharka, a small settlement mainly used for yak grazing.

The trail is short but strenuous due to gains in altitude. You’ll pass some little stone huts and temporary yak herder settlements along the way. The awe-inspiring views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna are with you all along. Upon reaching Yak Kharka, trekkers will often see blue sheep feeding on the green hillsides. Here the rest of the day is spent resting and acclimatizing for the trek to Thorong Phedi.

The route from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi ascends gently, traversing narrow trails with sections that are at times prone to landslide. The stark, rocky terrain gradually contrasts with the lush green foliage of the valleys below. Phedi, which translates to “foot of the hill,” is a small habitation located at the base of Thorong La Pass, and it provides basic teahouses for the trekking community. 

For the fit, there is a side trip to the High Camp (4,800 m), thus reducing the climbing effort needed for the next day. Most travelers, however, will rest in Thorong Phedi and conserve energy for the long climb ahead. The cool air makes every step heavier; thus, one must be hydrated and well rested.

It is the most difficult but also the most rewarding day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days. The climb up Thorong La Pass begins before dawn in order to minimize strong wind. The ascent itself is slow but steady, well-marked by a defined trail that winds through a desolate landscape of ice and snow. Reaching the top at 5,416m is victory, marked by colorful prayer flags and a small tea house where trekkers rejoice in their victory. 

The descent toward Muktinath is long and steep, with snowfields and rocky slopes. Muktinath is a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The famed temple there has 108 water spouts. The presence of both Hindu shrines and Buddhist monasteries is testimony to the deep spiritual harmony that exists within Nepal.

It’s quite a long trek from Muktinath to Jomsom through the Kali-gandaki Valley, where you can see how the wind has worked wonders on the cliffs. Kagbeni, an old village of Tibetan-style houses with narrow alleys, serves as the gateway to Upper Mustang. Strong winds blow all the way to Jomsom, but the sight of the Nilgiri peaks makes it worthwhile.

Jomsom, the administration center in the Mustang region, is equipped with modern facilities like the bakery, bank, and even small airport. This is where trekkers would spend the last night in the mountains before taking the next day’s flight to Pokhara.

On the twelfth day of the Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days, you will fly to Pokhara from Jomsom. During the journey, you can have superb views to the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. It will be timely for Pokhara-enlightened welcoming climates and transparent but warm lakeside atmosphere after a rugged, more than a month-long stay in the mountains.

You can have some of your time at Phewa Lake, perhaps visiting the Peace Pagoda or just enjoying one of the many lakeside cafes in the city. A little paradise for trekkers, particularly those who just want to laze around without worrying yet about getting back to Kathmandu.

Today, you will return from Pokhara to Kathmandu through Prithivi Highway which takes around 6 to 7 hours. The ride takes you through the countryside settlements around Tanahun and Dhading District. Simply, the return journey to Kathmandu is a scenic drive along winding mountain roads, passing through small towns and riverside settlements. Back in Kathmandu, you can celebrate your trek’s completion with a farewell dinner and reflect on the adventure.

Your journey to Annapurna Circuit Trek 14 Days comes to an end today. Our representative will help you escort to Tribhuvan International Airport from where you will fly back to your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute sightseeing or shopping before heading to the airport.