Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International airport, You will be welcomed by the ART staff and transferred to your hotel, overnight at the hotel
Overnight we will be accommodated at the best possible trekking lodge/ hotel with standards meals including breakfast ( B).
Today is a day of exploring the Heritage and Cultural sites of Kathmandu valley. Our guide will take you around the Kathmandu valley, Overnight at the hotel.
Overnight we will be accommodated at the best possible trekking lodge/ hotel with standard meals including breakfast ( B).
Driving Hours (175km / 108miles) 9-10 hrs
Highest Altitude 1,300m / 4,265ft
Early morning we drive from Kathmandu for about 6-7 hours (190 km) to the Besishar. On the way, you can see beautiful villages, farms, fast-flowing rivers, and glimpses of mountain ranges. As we will be taking a local bus, we might face some unplanned traffic, and there is a chance that we might not reach Besishar on time to catch a local bus to Jagat – our destination for the day. However, to avoid such delays, you can take a private car/jeep to Jagat for an extra cost.
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Today, after an early breakfast, we will drive for about 5 to 6 hours before reaching Besisahar – about 190 kilometers from Kathmandu. After reaching Besisahar we will head by jeep to Syange where you will have some incredible views of Mt. Annapurna II (7937m), Mt. Manaslu (8156m) and Mt Lamjung (6983m).
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Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you on a 7-8 hour public bus ride from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule. The Besishahar-Kathmandu roadway is a beautiful one. We will cross a suspension bridge before arriving at Bhulbhule and continue going through a captivating landscape to reach the Ngadi settlement. We’ll get views of Peak 29 (NadiChuli), Lamjung Himal, Manaslu, and other mountains after a gravel road from Besishahar to Bhulbhule.
Trek Distance 15km / 9.3miles
Highest Altitude 1,860m / 6,200ft
Trek Duration 5 hrs
After breakfast, we begin the 2nd day of our trip. First, we leave Jagat, cross a suspension bridge, and reach Tal Village. At Tal, you can witness several waterfalls forming a river by the sandy beaches. However, we will continue the journey that takes us through barley, rice, and potato fields leading us to Kodo – one of the biggest villages in Manang Valley. But, we will continue our trek, and after crossing a suspension bridge, we climb to stone Kani to finally reach Dharapani, where we will be spending the night.
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The journey today takes us along a trail through a gorge with amazing waterfalls cascading down into it and with numerous views of snow-capped peaks along the way. The winding trail takes us from Syange and via Jagat village (1410m), and then reaches Chamje village. After crossing the bridge there is a steep climb before we reach the village of Tal (1700m), situated next to the Marsyangdi River. Leaving Tal we continue on before reaching today’s destination, Dharapani village where we will stay the night.
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From Bhulbhule, we will continue on the trail to Jagat village, which takes up to 5 hours. The Jagat village is home to Gurung and Tamang people. We will see the Marsyangdi valley’s V-shaped outline along the route. We will proceed with our walk along the river bank down the spiral trail that passes Syange. We’ll also descend to the Jagat settlement.
Trek Distance 15.5km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude 2,610m / 8,890ft
Trek Duration 6 hrs
Today’s trek takes us through a forest with pine, fir, oak, and maple trees, eventually taking us to Chame, the district headquarter of Manang district. You will find yourself surrounded by the green forests, and over you, you will see remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). We will also stop by small hot springs and relax for a while, and if you want, you can take a dip in these hot springs.
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The day starts with breakfast at Jagat. After leaving Jagat, we go over a suspension bridge to Tal Village. You may see multiple waterfalls in Tal forming a river beside the white sand beaches. To get to Kodo, one of the largest settlements in Manang Valley, we continue our trek, past fields of barley, rice, and potatoes. We first ascend Stone Kani, which we do after passing a suspension bridge before reaching Dharapani.
Trek Distance 13.2km / 8.2miles
Highest Altitude 3,115m / 10,200ft
Trek Duration 5 – 6 hrs
We walk through a steep and narrow valley to catch the views of Paungda Danda Rock Face – a curved rock face rising 1500m from the Marshyandi River. From here, you will also see clear views of Annapurna II in the south and Pisang Peak in the northeast.
After viewing the Paungda Danda Rock Face, we descend to the Manang Valley floor, eventually reaching Pisang- our destination for the day.
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Our journey today passes through a forest of pines, oak, fir, and maple trees before arriving in Chame, the administrative headquarters of the Manang district. We will be in the middle of lush woods, with amusing views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna IV, and Annapurna II towering behind us. We will also take a break at some little hot springs, where you are welcome to have a dip if you like.
Trek Distance 17km / 10.6miles
Highest Altitude 3,540m / 11,300ft
Trek Duration 5 – 6 hrs
We leave Pisang behind and trek on the upper trails of Pisang via Geru. This path offers outstanding north face views of Annapurna II, III, IV, Gangapurna, Tilicho, and Pisang Peak. Since we are ascending, you will feel the air turn cold, dry, and harsh. Even in this harsh environment, you will find Tibetan-style settlements, and we will not miss visiting the Barge Monastery – the largest monastery in Manang.
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Our destination for the day is Pisang, at an elevation of 3300m. The breathtaking vista of Lamjung Himal (6893m), along with the first sunrays touching the majestic peak, will be our first sight as we set out on our hike early in the morning. As we approach Brathang Village, a magnificent waterfall becomes evident. The views of Annapurna II and the northeast summit of Pisang are breathtaking to see en route. Before arriving in Pisang, we will also pass by the Mani wall near the bridge.
By reaching Manang, we will have gained a lot of elevation, and our body needs time to adjust to high altitudes, so we will stop at Manang for a day.
We will use this day to explore Manang. In the early morning, we hike up to Gangapurna Lake / Ice Lake, and during the day, we will enjoy the outstanding views of Annapurna III, Tilicho, Pisang, and Chulu Peaks. Of course, you can also explore the Manang village. Most trekkers visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in Vraga village to learn about Acute Mountain Sickness, its symptoms, and ways to prevent it.
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From here, your trek around the Annapurna Circuit starts. We will traverse one of the roughest and most scenic trails. The walk features tough ascents with breathtaking views of the Marshyangdi River valley, the Annapurna Massif, and other peaks. The environment is immensely dry (much like the Tibetan plateau). However, there are spots where pinewood forests are present. We will explore the picturesque communities of Ghyaru & Nawal. Although it is a difficult climb, the vistas are eye-catching. The path is visible from the triangular peak of Annapurna 3 and Tilicho, also known as Tent Peak. We will arrive in the historic village with Tibetan settlers’ traditional houses with one of Nepal’s oldest Buddhist monasteries in the area, Braga, before arriving at Manang.
Trek Distance 12km / 7. 4miles
Highest Altitude 4,060m / 13,320ft
Trek Duration 4-5 hrs
The trek from Manang to Siri Kharka is an easier one. We take the upper route that leads down to a river, which we will cross, and then continue on a path that takes us through the coniferous forests. After walking for about three hours, we reach Tibetan settlement Khangsar, but we will continue our journey forward to reach Shiri Kharka. On the trails, we will get to see gorgeous views of Gungang Himal and Mt.Chulu.
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Leaving Manang we trek for 4 to 5 hours before reaching kangsar Village (3756m). The trail then goes uphill towards Siri Kharka, passing through a small religious village along the way. The trail is quite demanding physically, but once we reach higher altitudes the views will compensate, with amazing views of Gungang Himal and Mt. Chulu. We have to be careful to avoid slips on the gravelly path and potential avalanches. Tonight we will stay at Tilicho Base Camp. Guest house accommodation. Breakfast, lunch & dinner included.
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Acclimation day in Manang. At the base of Annapurna III, the town of Manang has magnificent views of both Gangapurna and Annapurna. Today, you can visit Ice Lake for an acclimatization walk. The route to Ice Lake, locally recognized as Kicho Tal, meanders through Chulu East’s northern slopes. The lake, which drains from the hills of Chulu East, is fed by the Chulu River. Take some time to enjoy the peaceful and wonderful atmosphere. Before returning to Manang, stop to take some photos.
Trek Distance 8km / 4.9 miles
Highest Altitude 4,150m / 13,583ft
Trek Duration 5 hrs
On our eighth day, we will leave Siri Kharka in the morning and trek towards Tilicho Base Camp. The path should be easy, but it passes through landslide-prone areas. From the trails, we get to enjoy the impressive rock formations along with magnificent snow peaks – including Tilicho Peak.
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Today the trail takes us from Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake ( world’s highest lake 4,919m) and takes us about three to four hours from Base camp.
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Leaving Manang, we will travel uphill across the Manang River through a suspension bridge. Continuing the climb, we will eventually arrive at Khangsar village after a few hours of walking. Take the steep trail to Siri Kharka from Khangsar village. We will arrive in Siri Kharka village after walking for about an hour and a half. Take a well-earned break by going to a teahouse.
Trek Distance 11 km / 6.8miles
Highest Altitude 4,920m / 16,138ft
Trek Duration 5-6 hrs
This is one of the special days of the trek as we will be viewing Tilicho Lake itself. But we start our day early in the morning at Tilicho Base Camp to avoid afternoon wind. The path is quite steep, and after laboring for two to three hours, we will reach Tilicho Lake – one of the highest lakes in the world. A well-known French expedition team referred to Tilicho Lake as The Great Ice Lake. Tilicho lake sits surrounded by the majestic peaks – Tilicho Himal, Annapurna Range, and Nilgiri Himal. After enjoying the views of Tilicho Lake, we retrace our path back to Siri Kharka, where we will be spending our night.
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An early start at around 4.30 a.m. sees us ascending 500 meters up and through the Mesokanta La Pass before heading down to Yak Kharka where we stay the night.
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The trail will lead you towards Tilicho Base Camp with only a few slight ascents along the way. However, take precautions in the landslide-prone areas before arriving at Tilicho Base Camp. You must be careful of the loose stones and gravel in the location till you arrive at Tilicho Base Camp. When we get to the base camp, we will go to the teahouse, where we have reservations for a room.
Trek Distance 8.4km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude (4,060m / 13,020ft)
Trek Duration 4-5 hrs
From Siri Kharka, we descend to the uninhabited Khangsar Village. On the way, we pass Tare Gumba, a thousand-year-old monastery, but our journey continues following a rock wall that takes us out of Khangsar and leads us to Thorong Khola Valley and finally to Yak Kharka. From Yak Kharka, you can get glorious views of the Annapurna mountain ranges. If you are lucky, you may also get sight of blue sheep or even a snow leopard.
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Trek from Yak Kharka to Jomson it takes about 6 hours all the way down each to Jomson is headquarter of Mustang District and overnight at Jomsom
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This is a special day since we will be at Tilicho Lake, Nepal’s second-highest lake at an altitude of 4919 meters. We will follow a track that keeps climbing until we reach the lake. You will undoubtedly be mesmerized by Tilicho Lake’s deep green waters, encircled by pristine white snow and ice. Before returning to Siri Kharkha, we will take photographs of the magnificent surroundings.
Trek Distance 8.5km / 5.2miles
Highest Altitude 4,525m / 14,525ft
Trek Duration 4-5 hrs
You need to walk uphill from Yak Kharka to reach Thorong Phedi. Thorong Phedi is the last village that comes before the Thorong La Pass. While walking uphill, you will get to see mesmerizing views of several mountains – including Gudang, Syagang, Khatungkan, and Throrug Peak.
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Today is our last day as we head to the small airport terminal at Jomson where we take a short 15 to 20 minute flight to Pokhara. Once airborne you will have some amazing views of the Himalayas. This evening you can sit back and relax, enjoy and drink or two and look back on your amazing adventure through the amazing Annapurna Conservation Area – stroll along Lakeside. Other attractions in Pokhara are the World Peace Pagoda (clearly visible across Phewa Tal (lake), Bindabasini Temple, Phewa Lake, Matepani Buddhist Monastery, International Mountain Museum and Devi’s Falls.
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The route descends from Siri Kharka and passes through farmlands and cultivated areas after coming to an abandoned village. There is a moderate elevation to a hill where one can glimpse Yak Kharka. As we reach near Yak Kharka, we will descend steeply, cross the river, and then slowly ascend once again. The Yak Kharka village is a yak herders’ grazing field. Few teahouses that provide both lodging and food are available.
Trek Distance 15.6km / 9.6miles
Highest Altitude 5,416m / 17,756ft
Trek Duration 9 hrs
Today’s trek will be the most challenging part of this trip, as we will be crossing Thorong La Pass – one of the highest passes in the world. It is also the highest point of the trek. To avoid the afternoon wind, we wake up at Thorong Phedi at 3 am and push ourselves against high altitude and icy air.
When you reach the Thorong La Pass, just by seeing the incredible scenery, you will feel that nature has paid back your efforts handsomely. From here, you can see the Himalayan peaks extending to Tibet in the north, and if you look back, you will see Annapurna standing proud and tall.
We descend from Thorong La Pass to reach Muktinath – a sacred site for Hindus and Buddhists. The Buddhist name for Muktinath is Chumig Ghasa which means Hundred Waters in Tibetan. And, of course, Muktinath hosts 108 stone sprouts through which flows the icy cold water of Kali Gandaki. In addition to the water sprouts, you will also see the eternal flame at Muktinath, which has been burning there for more than 2000 years.
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Today we head back on a 6 to 7 hour drive to Kathmandu with many fond memories of Nepal and its unique culture and geography. These memories will last a lifetime!
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Walking at an elevation above 4,000 meters causes your body gradually adjust to the high altitude. The route to Thorong Phedi crosses through a lonely and isolated terrain. Enjoying the scenery and the silence, we will walk through the trails reaching a glacier valley called Thorong Phedi, bordered on three sides by snow-capped mountains.
Driving Hours (113km / 70miles) 6-7
Highest Altitude 3,760m / 12,623ft
After a holy visit to Muktinath Temple, we continue our journey, this time in a local bus that takes us to Tatopani. The drive is pretty rough, full of twists and turns, in a region that is home to the world’s deepest gorges. Our path will take us through the bustling Jomsom Bazaar and finally to Tatopani – known for natural hot springs. Before the night sets in, it would make great sense to enjoy a bath in these hot springs.
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Friendship World Trek staff will transfer you to the airport for your final departure from Nepal. We hope that this epic trek will be firmly ingrained in your memory and will be enough to prompt you to consider your next trek with us!
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Today’s walk is challenging. We will get up early and leave as soon as the sun rises. Although easy, the terrain is steep. The hardest part of the walk is typically the final 600 meters heading up to the highest point (5416m.|17769ft.). The stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas await you at the summit of Thorong La Pass. In all of its splendor, Dhaulagiri rises. Upper Mustang, a former kingdom, is seen in the distance. We will proceed to Muktinath, a sacred pilgrimage place descending from Thorong La Pass. Muktinath is a destination to find redemption and a temple for both Hindus and Buddhists.
Trek Distance 17km / 10.5miles
Highest Altitude 2,860m / 9,385ft
Trek Duration 6-7 hrs
On our sixteenth day, we ascend to Ghorepani, through ethnic Sikha and Chitre village. We will be passing through the lush rhododendron, birch, and magnolia forests to reach Ghorepani, which sits on top of a ridge. During the blooming season, the rhododendrons add pink and bright red colors to the entire forest.
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We will initially pass through the dry countryside as we travel from Muktinath towards the stunning Kali Gandaki valley. Along the way, we will enjoy the spectacular scenery of Nilgiri & Dhaulagiri and towns with distinctive Tibetan architecture like Khingar and Jharkot. Likewise, before arriving at Marpha, we’ll keep walking past apple orchards. Finally, we will reach Tatopani, wandering through a settlement of Marpha, Kokhethanti, and Ghasa.
| Trek Distance | 12.5km / 7.7miles |
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| Highest Altitude | 3,210m / 10,525ft |
| Trek Duration | 4-5 hrs |
| Driving Hours | 2 hrs |
Poon Hill is one of the most famous viewpoints in the world. So, early in the morning, we wake up at Ghorepani and climb up a steep trail for about an hour to see the magnificent views of dawn breaking on Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. From here, you will also see Mustang and Pokhara in addition to over 20 high mountains. Poon Hill, with its glorious beauty, provides a favorite venue for photographers, and we will not miss the chance of clicking some pictures here. After spending some time at Poon Hill, we will descend to Birethanti, from where we will take a bus to Pokhara via Nayapul.
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We will leave the Kali Gandaki valley and begin our walk toward Ghar Khola valley. We will follow the route through a terraced field surrounded by mountains. Before arriving in a lovely rhododendron woodland, we go via the settlements of Shikha and Chitre. The forests can be seen full of red and pink rhododendrons. We continue walking until we reach the lovely town of Ghorepani, perched on a ridge.
| Driving Hours | (200km/ 124miles) – 6-7hrs |
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On our eighteenth day, after breakfast, we will take a tourist bus from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You may also choose to return by a 25-minute flight (not included in the package) for an extra cost. Our trek package completes at Kathmandu. Friendship World Trek will also host a farewell dinner at Kathmandu later in the day.
We hope, by completing this trek, you will have formed lifelong memories.
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We will hike for approximately 45 minutes to the summit of Poon Hill (3210m) to see the stunning sunrise view over the snow-capped mountains. The overall Ghorepani Poon Hill walk is built around this vista, making the effort to get there worthwhile. We trek back to Pokhara after breakfast, which involves a day of descending high slopes. We left towards Hile through the Banthanti, settlements of Ulleri, Birethanti, and Tikhedunga. Then, we will drive to reach Pokhara city.
After breakfast, we wave goodbye to Pokhara, a city of lakes, and head to Kathmandu. After arriving in Kathmandu, we have the rest of the time free to relax or go shopping. We shall enjoy a goodbye dinner in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our adventure.
Today marks the conclusion of our trip to Nepal! A Friendship World Trek representative will drive you to the airport around three hours before takeoff. If you have enough time for another trip, we can organize that for you too.