Overview

Annapurna circuit trek is one of the classic, most diverse and stunning teahouse trekking route in the Annapurna region. We explore the natural diversity from lush, tropical paddies field and rhododendron forests to Tibetan fortresses clinging to rocky cliffs. Walking through the interesting terrain of diverse geology, trekkers have a chance to experience the rich cultural diversity of Buddhism and the mysterious Bon-Po religion still co-existing and intermingle with each other. We have specially designed this Annapurna circuit trekking route making it shorter and avoiding the walk-on recently build a road. For example, the Kaligandaki Valley has been affected by road building in recent years, so this itinerary just takes in the best parts of the circuit. We start the trek from Bulbule after a drive from Kathmandu and finish at Jomsom, where we take a short flight to the city of Pokhara. Trekking around Annapurna routes includes the Great Himalayan trail from Dharapani to Kagbeni, the Tibetan Buddhist dominated settlements. We explore the Braga monastery, the oldest in the region and the shine of Muktinath, a famous pilgrimage site being worshiped by both Hindu and Buddhist devotees. We make the trek over the grouling pass of Thorung la at 5416 meters. It is one of the main highlights of the Annapurna trek. The views from the pass are truly spectacular, spreading from the northwest wind-eroded ” the Last Forbidden Kingdom” of Mustang valley to incredible mountain ranges of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. We also do explore the peaceful lake city of Pokhara before we return back to Kathmandu to end the exhilarating trip to Annapurna circuit trek.

  • Annapurna circuit is the first name that comes to mind to anyone who has looked into trekking in Nepal. We explore the natural diversity of lush, tropical paddies field and rhododendron forests to Tibetan fortresses and communities clinging to rocky cliffs.

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A Step By Step Treks & Adventure representative will be waiting for you at the airport. He/she will then drop us off at our hotel where we can take a rest. In the evening we can enjoy a short visit around mix colorful touristic hub at Thamel and as well as introduce the Nepalese mix culture with food and drinks.

Today is our second big day for exploring the entire popular Kathmandu UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This spot shows you the most highlight of Nepal’s cultural and religious heritages. Our following days will be Kathmandu Durbar Square which showcases Kathmandu’s rich architectural prowess during the Malla dynasty (c1201–1769), and then Swayambhunath Stupa which tourists commonly refer to as the ‘Monkey Temple’ owing to a large number of the monkey population in the vicinity. Next is Pashupatinath Temple which is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus all over the world followed by the Buddhist shrine of Boudhanath which is one of the largest stupas in the world. Overnight in Kathmand

We will drive to Beshisahar. We then take a local jeep from Beshisahar to Syange. This drive gives you some insight into the rural people – their lifestyle and their culture. Overnight at Guesthouse

We enter Manang district after crossing a large bridge near Tal. The trail passes through barley, rice and potato fields; and the waterfalls continue to accompany us even today. We also pass through the village of Kodo before reaching Dharapani which is one of the biggest villages in the Manang valley. Overnight at Dharapani.

Today we negotiate a few steep forested ridges along with several landslides on route to Chame. We should not forget to look up though, as we will be greeted with remarkable views of Lamjung Himal, Annapurna II, and Annapurna IV (7,525m). Overnight at Chame.

We walk through a steep and narrow valley to have our first view of Paungda Danda rock face, a dramatic curved rock face rising 1500m from the river. From here, we also gain excellent views of Annapurna 2 to the south and Pisang Peak to the northeast. Next, we descend to the Manang Valley floor enjoying the captivating landscape. Overnight in Pisang.

From Pisang there are two routes to Manang. We choose the one which passes through Upper Pisang via Gyaru as it guarantees outstanding views of Mt. Annapurna, Pisang Peak, and others. As we walk near Manang the climate becomes more cold and dry. However, a short visit to Baraga Monastery, the biggest monastery in the Manang. Overnight at Manang.

In order to keep fit on the trails that follow, we keep ourselves busy today with a short hike to either 100 Lama Cave (Gumba) or Gangapurna Lake (optional-Ice Lake). If we have the energy, we can even hike to Vraga Village where we can visit the Himalayan Rescue Association which will give us some idea about Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Overnight in Manang.

From Manang village, the trail crosses a stream, climbs to a village of Tenki above Manang, and then continues to climb out of the Marshyangdi Valley turning northwest up the valley of Jarsang Khola. The trail follows this valley northward, passing a few pastures, a scrub of juniper trees, as it steadily gains elevation. The trail further passes near the small village of Ghunsang, a cluster of flat mud roofs just below the trailhead. Now the trail goes through meadows where horses and yaks graze. After crossing a small river on a wooden bridge, the trail passes an ancient old Mani wall in a pleasant meadow and then reaches another small village of Yak Kharka. Little but Gradual ascent is the key to avoiding altitude problems.

It is an uphill walk to Thorang Phedi. After walking for some time we cross a suspension bridge and reach Ledar village. We ascend furthermore and pass through towering cliffs before reaching Thorang Phedi, the last village before Thorong La. On this trip we are rewarded with one of the best views of Mt. Gundang, Mt. Syagang, Thorung Peak and Mt. Khatungkan. Overnight in Thorang Phedi.

Crossing Thorong La pass, one of the highest passes in the world will be our ultimate objective today. We will be crossing the pass from east to west (Manang to Muktinath) which is the easiest and safest direction. We get up around three in the morning and walk up the mountain. When we finally make it to the top, we realize that our journey was worth it. We can take a few photos before heading to Muktinath Valley at the foot of the Thorong La pass. Next, drive to Jomsom a Himalayan village famous for its delicious apples. Overnight in Jomsom.

Today we fly to Pokhara, the lake city in the earliest possible airplane. After checking-in at our hotel, we may take a rest or visit the Lakeside area in the vicinity of the Fewa Lake. Here, we can indulge in buying some souvenirs or sampling some local delicacies. Overnight in Pokhara.

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. There will also be a farewell dinner hosted by our Company in the evening to celebrate the successful completion of our journey.

Our adventure in Nepal comes to an end today! A Step By Step representative will escort us to the airport approximately 2 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.

The price includes :

  • Pickups and drops from hotels and airport
  • Accommodations in 3-star hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara; and teahouses during the trek
  • Breakfast in Kathmandu and Pokhara. All meals during the trek
  • Welcome and farewell dinners
  • Transportation on a comfortable private vehicle as per the itinerary
  • Domestic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • An experienced English-speaking trek leader (trekking guide), assistant trek leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers: 1 porter) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food, and lodging
  • Down jacket, four seasonal sleeping bag, kit bag/duffel bag, t-shirt, trekking map (down jacket and sleeping bag are to be returned after trip completion)
  • All necessary paperwork and permits (ACAP, TIMS)
  • A comprehensive medical kit
  • All government and local taxes

The price doesn't includes:

  • Nepalese visa fee
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara in case of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary
  • Airplane fare
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottle or boiled water, shower etc)
  • Tips for guides and porters

  • Warm jacket – down jacket, if possible.
  • Water and windproof jacket (alternatively bring a poncho or umbrella)
  • Long-sleeved synthetic fleece (windproof material, if possible)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Hat, pair of gloves and scarf
  • Comfortable hiking trousers (loose-fitting
  • Shorts and trousers, or a skirt
  • 2 pairs of warm wool-blend socks
  • 2 pairs of running socks or liner socks
  • Proper hiking boots
  • Running shoes and flip-flops
  • 2-3 t-shirts

  • The outer jacket should be warm, down jacket is highly recommended during the winter season
  • Bring a pair of warm winter trousers, in addition to the hiking trousers
  • Bring at least one windproof layer of clothes, helping to reduce any chill factor influence.
  • Snow gaiters

  • Toiletries
  • A small lightweight and quick-drying towel
  • Bar of soap
  • Sunscreen (SPF +20)
  • Earplugs
  • Insect repellants
  • Personal First aid kit
  • Water purification tablets or a water filter
  • Toilet paper(Available number of tea houses along the trek)
  • Camera, battery etc
  • Binoculars
  • Books/magazines
  • Trekking poles(provide from Company)
  • GPS unit if have
  • Padlocks for guest house rooms and bags
  • Sewing/repair kit
  • Pocket knife
  • Dairy or notebook plus a pencil/pen

Adapters (Nepal two-prong, 220-volt plug; or just an international, universal adaptor) Personal snacks (candy bars & cookies can also be bought in Kathmandu or at every guesthouse)

  • Toiletries
  • A small lightweight and quick-drying towel
  • Bar of soap
  • Sunscreen (SPF +20)
  • Earplugs
  • Insect repellants
  • Personal First aid kit
  • Water purification tablets or a water filter
  • Toilet paper(Available number of tea houses along the trek)
  • Camera, battery etc
  • Binoculars
  • Books/magazines
  • Trekking poles(provide from Company)
  • GPS unit if have
  • Padlocks for guest house rooms and bags
  • Sewing/repair kit
  • Pocket knife
  • Dairy or notebook plus a pencil/pen
  • Warm jacket – down jacket, if possible.
  • Water and windproof jacket (alternatively bring a poncho or umbrella)
  • Long-sleeved synthetic fleece (windproof material, if possible)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Hat, pair of gloves and scarf
  • Comfortable hiking trousers (loose-fitting
  • Shorts and trousers, or a skirt
  • 2 pairs of warm wool-blend socks
  • 2 pairs of running socks or liner socks
  • Proper hiking boots
  • Running shoes and flip-flops
  • 2-3 t-shirts

Adapters (Nepal two-prong, 220-volt plug; or just an international, universal adaptor) Personal snacks (candy bars & cookies can also be bought in Kathmandu or at every guesthouse)

Overall Rating
5/5
Sleeping
Excellent
5/5
Guide
Very Good
5/5
Location
Excellent
5/5
Food
Excellent
5/5
Service
Excellent
5/5
Reviews(4)
Athena Fournier
from From German
5/5
We are a couple from German and had just completed Annapurna Circuit over the course of 14 days, facilitated by Step By Step. We could not be more pleased with our experience. From the beginning, Kris..
2020-12-03
Eleanor May
from Oxford,United Kingdom
5/5
Step by Step Treks and Adventures was recommended to me by my friend Emma, also from the UK, who was in Nepal last year. She was very happy to have done a trek through the company to Australia base ca..
2020-12-03
Xavier
from from Paris,France
5/5
"Annapurna & Tilicho Lake Treks" When we arrived in Pokhara, last November week, we came across by chance on the Step By Step agency, just one day before our Trek starts. To our great surprise, we met..
2020-12-03
Lee
from from HongKong
5/5
From the moment we arrived Pokhara bus station, we were welcomed by Step by Step trekking guides (Rupesh and Syam), with typical warm Nepalese greeting "Namaste!" They provide tailor-made service to t..
2020-12-03

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