Annapurna Circuit Trek with poon hill

01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Discover the journey

Annapurna Circuit trekking has been recognized as one of the World's best trekking trails according to a survey by Modern Maturity (USA). This is a dramatic trek around the mighty Annapurna range, a journey that is regarded as one of the top ten walks in the world. Exploring the beautiful Annapurna region, you shall reach the highest point of the trek—the Thorong La Pass situated at an altitude of 5,416 meters. Passing through the settlements inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Manag communities, you shall enjoy every step you take in this beautiful region. You shall explore the breathtaking landscape and rich cultural practices during this trek added with the adventure. This Classic Annapurna lodge trek is certainly enjoyed by trekkers from all around the world. Annapurna circuit trek was opened for foreign trekkers in 1977. You shall be trekking via the lush green forests, passing several small and large settlements, crossing through several suspension bridges, beside waterfalls, witnessing the staggering views of majestic mountains soaring high above you, and a peaceful spiritual attachment shall slowly engulf you as you pass beside several Mani Walls, Chortens, and monasteries. With an aim to help you make most out of this trek, we have made some variations in the popular trekking routes. From Kathmandu, you shall ride all the way to Besisahar and start trekking from thereon. Trekking alongside the Marsyandi River, you shall pass through terraced fields, ascending and descending via the beautiful villages, witnessing the Annapurna range and other mountains. As we ascend, the valley becomes narrower, waterfalls plummet from high above, and the scenery gains a rugged alpine appearance. The highest point of the Annapurna Circuit trekking is Thorong La pass at the top of the valley at 5,416m/17,765ft high. Due to the difficulties of crossing the pass, the circuit is usually walked in a counter clockwise direction. Traveling anti clockwise, the longer ascent and shorter descent from west to east is too much for many people to manage in one day. As we trek north of the Great Himalayan Divide there is a dramatic change as we enter the stark landscape of the Tibetan Plateau where the culture becomes predominantly Buddhist. We then head back down the great Kali Gandhaki Valley, which is believed to be the deepest gorge in the world. Our experienced local guide will take you through the revised route along the Valley to avoid road under construction between Muktinath to Kalopani. This section of our trek shall detour to follow the footpaths through pretty villages away from the road, but returns to the traditional circuit villages for overnight lodge stays. Route Kathmandu (1,345 m)- Besisahar (830 m)-Syange-Chamje (1,400 m)-Bagarchhap (2,160 m)-Chame (2,630 m)-Pisang (3,300 m)-Manang (3,540 m)-Yak Kharka (4,000 m)-Thorong Phedi (4,450 m)-Thorong La Pass (5,416 m)-Muktinath (3,800 m)-Marpha (2,670 m)-Kalopani (2,530 m)-Tatopani (1,200 m)-Ghorepani (2,850 m)-Tadapani (2,700 m)-Ghandruk-Pokhara (850 m)-Kathmandu (1,345 m) Difficulty Annapurna Circuit Trekking is a moderate level of trekking; it doesn’t involve any technical climbing. The only challenge you might face during this trek is while crossing the Thorong La Pass. Otherwise, you might not feel the trek too strenuous. You do not require any athletic body fitness to complete this trek. Ensure that you can do long duration of walking uphill and downhill for some days in a row. Also ensure that you don’t have any problems with your knees and ankles or any part that might directly hamper trekking. Altitude sickness can be another challenge that you might have to face during this trek. To avoid this you shall take sufficient time for acclimatization to let you adapt to the growing altitude. Taking sufficient rests, you shall complete this trek successfully. Food and Accommodation You shall get typical Nepalese local dishes, with some international varieties throughout your trek. However, taking the pervasive dish Dal Bhat for lunch is highly recommended. You shall be served with rice, lentils, green vegetables and other varieties of vegetables, Papad, pickles made locally, and salad. Macaroni, potatoes, noodles, spaghetti, etc. are some other alternatives to Dal Bhat. Similarly, there are plenty of teahouses, lodges, and hotels to stay at. However, the higher you ascend the limited the facilities in the accommodation become, serving with beds, blankets, and sometimes shared a bathroom. Best Season March through to May, and September through to November are considered the best time to do any trek in Nepal, including the Annapurna Circuit Trekking. During March through to May, though it might be pretty hot in the lower altitude areas of the Annapurna region, you shall be welcomed by the blooming red rhododendrons. This is also the time just before the starting of the monsoon, thus, you should not worry about the rainfall. Also, September through to November is the best time; the lower areas of the region aren’t too hot, and the high altitude areas aren’t too cold, either. But the nights can be pretty chilly and cold. Sometimes traveling during the extreme season during winter can make your trekking miserable.

02 / WHY GO

The memorable moments

Spectacular Mountain Views: The Annapurna Circuit provides breathtaking views of some of the world's highest peaks, including Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Dhaulagiri (8,167 meters), Manaslu (8,163 meters), and Machapuchare (6,993 meters). The sunrise from Poon Hill is particularly famous for its panoramic mountain vistas. Thorong La Pass: Crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) is a significant achievement. It's one of the highest trekking passes in the world and offers stunning views in all directions. Diverse Landscapes: The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from subtropical forests and terraced fields in the lower regions to alpine meadows, barren highlands, and glacial terrain at higher elevations. The transition is captivating. Cultural Diversity: You'll encounter diverse cultures and ethnic groups along the way, including Gurungs, Magars, Thakalis, and Tibetans. Explore traditional villages, monasteries, and learn about their unique customs and lifestyles. Hot Springs: Enjoy the natural hot springs in Tatopani, perfect for relaxing and soothing sore muscles after long days of trekking. Poon Hill: The sunrise view from Poon Hill is a must-see. It offers a stunning panorama of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, painted with hues of red and orange as the sun rises. Manang: This picturesque village is a great place for acclimatization. It has a rich Tibetan culture, and you can visit monasteries and interact with the locals. Muktinath: A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, Muktinath offers a unique blend of religion and nature. The 108 water spouts and the eternal flame are fascinating. Ghorepani: A charming village with a pleasant atmosphere and the opportunity to visit Poon Hill for sunrise views. Traditional Teahouses: Stay in traditional teahouses along the route, which provide basic accommodations and a chance to interact with other trekkers. Rich Flora and Fauna: The trek passes through protected areas, providing opportunities to spot diverse flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, orchids, and various bird species. Diverse Culinary Experiences: Savor a variety of local and international dishes at the teahouses, including dal bhat (lentil soup and rice), momo (dumplings), and yak cheese. Warm Hospitality: Experience the warm hospitality of the Nepali people and the kindness of the villagers along the trail. Unique Suspension Bridges: Cross some of the iconic suspension bridges over the Marsyangdi River, adding an adventurous element to your trek. Sense of Accomplishment: Completing the Annapurna Circuit is a significant accomplishment for trekkers. It's a journey of self-discovery and offers a profound connection with nature and culture. Why Travel With Us Customer Support With 24-hour customer service, customers can get help whenever they need it, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Safety Equipment We carry all necessary safety equipment including hyperbaric chambers, automated external defibrillators, pulse oximeters, and general first aid kits. Our first priority is your safety on the mountain. Our purpose To provide our customers with unforgettable and safe trekking experiences that connect them with natural beauty, and support local communities and local culture. Certified Tour Operator We are a certified Trek and Tour operator with Nepal Tourism Board, Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal, and Nepal Mountaineering Association. And we are local Sherpa tour company of Nepal. No Extra Fees There is no additional fee for paying by credit card. Airport transfers are included both on arrival and departure. All taxes and government fees are included in all our packages. Free Nepali & Sherpa Food Cooking Classes - The Best Way to Learn! Start a culinary journey with our free Nepalese and Sherpa cooking classes. Discover authentic recipes, hands-on cooking, and cultural insights into Himalayan cuisine. Explore Traditional Cuisine: Learn to prepare iconic dishes like momos (dumplings), dal bhat (lentils and rice), thukpa (noodle soup), and more. Perfect for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Join us for an unforgettable experience! Social Media Updates During every trek, we do our best to post social media updates with photos to our Facebook Group or our Instagram Stories. This way your family and friends can watch your progress during your trek.

03 / YOUR ROUTE

Journey at a glance

Day Day 01: Arrival day in Kathmandu — Arrival in Kathmandu airport (1345meters). There you will be met by our Airport Representative and transferred to hotel by private tourist vehicle. Overnight at hotel. Day Day 02: Full Day city TOur in Kathamandu city 5/6 hrs — Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours 1. Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local café to fuel up for the day ahead. 2. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Begin your tour by visiting Swayambhunath Stupa, one of the most iconic and ancient religious sites in Kathmandu. Explore the stupa's complex, which includes shrines, temples, and a large stupa adorned with prayer flags and colorful decorations. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the hilltop location. 3. Patan Durbar Square: Head to Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Lalitpur (Patan), which is known for its well-preserved Newar architecture. Explore the various temples, palaces, courtyards, and intricate stone carvings that reflect the artistic and architectural heritage of the area. 4. Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch at a local restaurant. This is a great opportunity to savor some local cuisine. 5. Pashupatinath Temple: After lunch, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Observe the temple's stunning architecture, and if you're respectful, you can witness Hindu cremation rituals along the Bagmati River. 6. Boudhanath Stupa: Proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Take a leisurely walk around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and observing the serene atmosphere. 7. Thamel Shopping and Rest Break: Thamel is a vibrant neighborhood known for its shopping and dining options. Take a break to relax, do some shopping for souvenirs, or enjoy a cup of Nepali tea or coffee. 8. Kathmandu Durbar Square: End your day at Kathmandu Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic square, admire the intricately carved wooden architecture of the old palace, temples, and statues. 9. Evening Cultural Performance: Depending on the schedule, consider attending an evening cultural performance, such as traditional Nepali dances or music. These performances often provide insights into local culture and traditions. 10. Dinner: Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner, either at your hotel or at a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast only Day Day 03: Kathamandu to Besisahar drive 175 km.about 109 miles. 5/6 hrs. — Trekking staff will arrive at your Hotel at 7.00 am in the morning to pick you up. The drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar is a common starting point for the Annapurna Circuit Trek. Besisahar is located in the Lamjung District of Nepal and serves as the gateway to the trekking route. The distance between Kathmandu and Besisahar is approximately 175 kilometers (about 109 miles), and the journey usually takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Here's a general description of the drive: Starting in Kathmandu: The drive begins in the capital city of Kathmandu. You'll typically st art from the Thamel area or another location in Kathmandu, depending on your travel arrangements. Head West: You'll initially head westward out of Kathmandu. The road can be quite busy and may be narrow in some sections, so be prepared for slow progress through the outskirts of the city. Prithvi Highway: After leaving Kathmandu, you'll join the Prithvi Highway, which is the main road connecting Kathmandu to the western part of Nepal. The highway offers beautiful views of the Trishuli River and the surrounding hills. Drive through scenic countryside: As you continue on the Prithvi Highway, you'll pass through various towns and villages. Along the way, you'll see terraced fields, forests, and hills. The road can be winding and hilly in some places. Arrival in Besisahar: Your journey will eventually bring you to Besisahar, which is a major town in the Lamjung District. This is where many trekkers officially begin their Annapurna Circuit Trek. You can arrange for accommodations and permits in Besisahar before starting your trek. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 04: Drive from Besisahar to Dharapani (1,960m / 6,430 ft) – Approx. 4–5 Hours — Continue driving deeper into the Himalayas via a rugged off-road trail along the Marsyangdi River to Dharapani. This section offers a glimpse of lush forested trails and waterfalls. Overnight at lodge. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 05: Trek from Dharapani to Chame (2,670m / 8,760 ft) – Approx. 5–6 Hours — Begin your trek as you follow the river through pine and fir forests. Cross several suspension bridges and pass through the quaint villages of Bagarchhap and Timang before reaching Chame, the district headquarters of Manang. Enjoy views of Lamjung Himal. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 06: Trek from Chame to Upper Pisang (3,300m / 10,827 ft) – Approx. 4–6 Hours — The trail narrows as you walk through a steep and deep valley with dramatic rock walls. Climb steadily through forests and small settlements until reaching Upper Pisang, which offers stunning views of Annapurna II and IV. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 07: Trek from Upper Pisang to Manang (3,540m / 11,614 ft) – Approx. 5–6 Hours — Take the high trail via Ghyaru and Ngawal for more dramatic mountain views and fewer tourists. This route provides spectacular panoramas of Annapurna III, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak. Reach Manang, a beautiful village nestled beneath towering peaks. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 08: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Manang — Today is set aside for acclimatization. Explore Manang and its surroundings—visit the ancient monastery, hike to Gangapurna Lake or the Ice Lake viewpoint for altitude adjustment. Take it slow and enjoy the landscape. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 09: Trek from Manang to Ledar (4,250m / 13,944 ft) – Approx. 4–5 Hours — The trail ascends steadily, passing through alpine landscapes and yak pastures. Cross several small streams and suspension bridges. The air gets thinner, and you’ll feel the altitude. Overnight at a basic lodge in Ledar. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 10: Trek from Ledar to Thorong High Camp (4,925m / 16,158 ft) – Approx. 4–5 Hours — Climb gradually through rocky trails, crossing a metal suspension bridge and reaching Thorong Phedi. From here, ascend steeply to Thorong High Camp for better acclimatization. This is your final stop before the big pass. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 11: Trek to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5,416m / 17,769 ft) – Trek 7–8 Hours, Drive 2.5 Hours — The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is another critical part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, leading you closer to the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Here's a description of the trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi: Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi Trek: Starting Point (Yak Kharka): You'll start your trek from Yak Kharka, which is situated at an altitude of around 4,018 meters (13,182 feet). Distance: The distance from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi is approximately6/7 kilometers (about 3.7 to 4.3 miles) along the main trekking trail. Altitude Gain: As you trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi, you'll continue to gain altitude. Thorong Phedi is located at an elevation of about 4,450 meters (14,600 feet), which means there's an ascent of approximately 432 meters (about 1,417 feet). Trail Conditions: The trail is well-established but can be steep and rocky, especially as you approach Thorong Phedi. You'll be walking on a mix of dirt paths and rocky terrain. Scenery: This section of the trek offers stunning mountain views, including the prominent Thorong Peak (6,144 meters) and the surrounding peaks of the Annapurna Massif. The landscape becomes more barren and rugged as you ascend into higher altitudes. Duration: The trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your hiking pace and breaks. It's considered a moderate day of trekking. Accommodations: Thorong Phedi offers basic teahouses and lodges for trekkers to find accommodations and meals. Keep in mind that facilities may be more limited due to the higher altitude, so it's crucial to stay warm and well-prepared. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 12: Muktinatha to Tatopani Drive 1190 m./ 3,904 ft 5/6 hrs drive — The drive from Muktinath to Tatopani in Nepal involves a significant change in elevation and offers a transition from the arid landscapes of the Mustang region to the lush and subtropical forests of Tatopani. Here's an overview of the journey: Starting Point (Muktinath): Muktinath is located at an altitude of around 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) and is a significant pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. It's known for its sacred temple complex and natural hot springs. Distance: The distance from Muktinath to Tatopani is approximately 100 to 110 kilometers (about 62 to 68 miles) by road. The route covers a considerable distance and involves a significant change in elevation. Altitude Change: Muktinath is at a relatively high altitude, while Tatopani is situated at a lower elevation of around 1,190 meters (3,904 feet). The drive involves a substantial descent in altitude. Road Conditions: The road from Muktinath to Tatopani is a mix of paved and unpaved sections. Some parts of the road can be rough and challenging, especially in the mountainous terrain. Road conditions may vary depending on the season and recent maintenance. Scenery: The drive offers diverse and breathtaking scenery, including views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. You'll pass through various landscapes, including barren highlands, deep valleys, and lush forests as you descend towards Tatopani. Duration: The duration of the drive can vary widely depending on road conditions, weather, and traffic. It usually takes around 6 to 8 hours to drive from Muktinath to Tatopani. Be prepared for a long and potentially bumpy journey. Landmarks and Stops: Along the way, you may pass through or near villages such as Jomsom, Marpha, Tukuche, and Ghasa. These villages offer opportunities to rest, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the culture of the region. Natural Hot Springs: Tatopani is known for its natural hot springs, and many travelers take the opportunity to relax and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters. It's a great way to unwind after a long day of driving. Accommodations: Tatopani has a range of accommodations, including guesthouses, teahouses, and lodges, where you can find places to stay and enjoy meals. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 13: Tatopani to Ghorepani( 2,874 m./ 9,429 fit.) 15 to 16 kilometers. 6/7 hrs — You'll begin your trek from Tatopani, which is situated at an altitude of around 1,190 meters (3,904 feet). Tatopani is known for its natural hot springs, and many trekkers enjoy soaking in them before starting the trek. Distance: The distance from Tatopani to Ghorepani is approximately 15 to 16 kilometers (about 9.3 to 9.9 miles) along the main trekking trail. Altitude Gain: As you trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani, you'll experience a significant altitude gain. Ghorepani is located at an elevation of approximately 2,874 meters (9,429 feet), so there's an ascent of about 1,684 meters (about 5,525 feet). Trail Conditions: The trail is well-established and well-marked, and it's a mix of dirt paths and stone-paved trails. You'll pass through lush rhododendron forests, bamboo groves, and small villages along the way. Scenery: This section of the trek offers beautiful views of the Kali Gandaki River Valley and surrounding hills. The highlight of the trek is the rhododendron forest, which is especially vibrant during the spring when the rhododendron blooms are in full display. Duration: The trek from Tatopani to Ghorepani typically takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on your hiking pace and stops along the way. It's considered a moderate to challenging day of trekking due to the significant altitude gain. Accommodations: Ghorepani is a well-established trekking hub, and it offers a variety of guesthouses, teahouses, and lodges where you can find accommodations and meals. It's a popular stop for trekkers en route to Poon Hill and other destinations. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner Acomodation Best Available Mountain Lodge/ Guest House Day Day 14: Hike to Poon Hill trek to Tikhedunga (1,540 m/5,052 ft), drive to pokhara — wake up very early (around 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM) to make the ascent to Poon Hill (3,210 meters or 10,532 feet) before sunrise. The hike to Poon Hill typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Once at the summit, you'll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. Return to Ghorepani: After enjoying the sunrise and taking in the panoramic views, you'll descend back to Ghorepani for breakfast. Ghorepani to Tirkedhunga: Following breakfast in Ghorepani, you'll start your trek downhill toward Tirkedhunga. The descent involves walking through lush rhododendron forests and terraced fields, with occasional steep sections. Altitude Change: The altitude of Tirkedhunga is approximately 1,540 meters (5,052 feet), so there's a significant descent from Ghorepani. Duration: The trek from Ghorepani to Poon Hill and then down to Tirkedhunga can take a full day. The trekking duration will depend on your pace and the number of breaks you take along the way. Landmarks Along the Way: You may pass through or near villages like Ulleri as you descend to Tirkedhunga. These villages provide opportunities to interact with locals and experience the local culture. The drive from Tirkedunga to Pokhara is a relatively short but scenic journey that allows you to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Nepal's countryside.The duration of the drive can vary depending on road conditions, traffic, and the specific route taken. On average, it may take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours to drive from Tirkedunga to Pokhara. Meals: Breakfast,Lunch Acomodation: Hotel in pokhara Day Day 15: goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara 6/7 hrs drive — After breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful lake city of Pokhara and drive towards Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, we have the rest of the day off to rest or do some souvenir shopping. To celebrate the successful completion of our journey, we will have a farewell dinner in the evening. Overnight in Kathmandu. Meals: Breakfast Acomodation: Hotel Day Day 16: Your adventure in Nepal comes to an end today. — Our adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! A Mountain Hiking representative will escort us to the airport approximately 3 hours before our scheduled flight. On our way home, we have plenty of time to plan our next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal. Included meals:Breakfast

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE