Manang Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the majestic Himalayas with the Classic Annapurna Circuit trek. This iconic route takes you through a diverse landscape of lush forests, arid high-altitude deserts, and picturesque valleys

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Good To Know

  • Duration 13 days
  • Activity Trekking
  • Difficulty Type Strenuous
  • Best Season Spring and Autumn
  • Max. Altitude 5416 m
  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
  • Trip Starts Kathmandu
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the majestic Himalayas with the Manang Annapurna Circuit trek. This iconic route takes you through a diverse landscape of lush forests, arid high-altitude deserts, and picturesque valleys. Additionally, experience the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal as you pass through traditional villages inhabited by Gurung, Thakali, and Tibetan communities. Along the way, cozy teahouses provide comfortable lodging and hearty meals, ensuring a restful night’s sleep before tackling the next day’s adventure.

Furthermore, the highlight of the trek is conquering Thorong La Pass, standing tall at 5,416 meters (17,769 feet). Here, panoramic views of the Annapurna Massif, including peaks like Annapurna I and Dhaulagiri, await. Also, explore Buddhist monasteries that dot the landscape, offering insight into the region’s spiritual heritage. Be prepared for the challenge of trekking at high altitudes and varying weather conditions, with the best times to go being pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (September-November). Ultimately, the Annapurna Circuit promises an exhilarating blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

In summary, the Manang Annapurna Circuit trek offers breathtaking views, rich culture, and memorable adventures. Start planning your trek with Kalpa Holidays for an experience you’ll never forget.

Manang annapurna circuit trek

Manang Annapurna Circuit Trek Highlights

  • Embark on a trek to Thorang La Pass at 5,416 meters.
  • Traverse through the picturesque valleys of Marsyangdi and Kali Gandaki Rivers.
  • Delight in close-up vistas of some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. 
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tibetan Buddhist cultures found in Manang and Mustang.
  • Explore the serene Ice Lake and Gangapurna Lake.
  • Get the opportunity to visit Muktinath Temple and breathtaking Dhumba Lake.

Best time for Manang Annapurna circuit Trek 

The best time to trek the Classic Annapurna Trek is during the spring and autumn seasons in Nepal. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions, clear skies, and optimal temperatures for trekking.  

Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to trek in the Annapurna Region, including the Classic Annapurna Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is generally mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations. Higher elevations are cooler.
  • Clear Views: The skies are typically clear, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Annapurna I, Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Dhaulagiri, and Machhapuichhre.
  • Flora: The rhododendron forests are in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape with colorful flowers and lush greenery.
  • Crowds: This is a popular trekking season, the Classic Annapurna trekking trail remains more crowded than other treks in the Annapurna Region.

Autumn Season (September to November)

Autumn is another ideal time to trek the Classic Annapurna Trek. During this season:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather is stable with clear skies, low humidity, and pleasant temperatures, similar to spring. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C at lower elevations, while it is cooler at higher altitudes.
  • Clear Views: Autumn is known for its crisp air, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
  • Festivals: This season aligns with major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering cultural insights and opportunities to experience local traditions.
  • Crowds: Autumn is the peak trekking season in Nepal, and the Classic Annapurna Trek trail is more crowded compared to other treks.

Off-Season Considerations

While spring and autumn are the best time for the Classic Annapurna Trek, some trekkers prefer off-season trekking for a unique experience. However, these periods come with challenges:

  • Winter Season (December to February): Trekking in winter offers solitude and stunning snowy landscapes, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Trails might be icy, and some teahouses could be closed.
  • Monsoon Season (June to August): The monsoon brings heavy rain, making trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides and leeches. The clouds and rain can also obstruct mountain views.

Overall, spring and autumn provide the best weather, views, and cultural experiences. These seasons are ideal for trekking the Classic Annapurna. If you plan to visit during the off-season, expect additional challenges. Always check weather forecasts and trail conditions in advance.

Itinerary

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal

Greetings and welcome to Nepal! This is a land of towering Himalayan peaks, lush greenery, rich cultural diversity, and stunning valleys. Upon your arrival at the airport, a representative from The Himalayan Trek will be there to meet you, aligning with your flight schedule, and they will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After you’ve checked in, a brief overview of your upcoming trip will be provided. If you wish to explore the city on foot, feel free to inquire with your guide, who will do their best to organize a suitable walking excursion based on your arrival time.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today, we will embark on a journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara and then onwards to Jagat in our Private Vehicle, spanning approximately 8 to 9 hours. Along the way, we will be greeted by lush greenery and the majestic peaks of the Annapurna range, as well as the towering presence of Mt. Manaslu. After about 6 to 7 hours of driving, we will arrive in Pokhara, and from there, it will take us another 1 to 2 hours to reach Jagat. We will spend the night at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3200 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast today, we’ll drive from Jagat to Pisang, a journey of about 5 to 6 hours. Leaving Jagat, a charming village near Marsyangi and Modi Khola, we’ll traverse breathtaking landscapes of lush green valleys, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Passing through picturesque villages like Syange and Dharapani, each offering a glimpse into local life against awe-inspiring mountain vistas, we’ll finally arrive at Pisang. Divided by the Marshyangdi River, Pisang includes Lower and Upper Pisang, with Upper Pisang at 3,300 meters elevation. Here, Tibetan prayer wheels await, inviting you to partake in tradition before tomorrow’s trek begins. Prepare to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Annapurna Circuit and acclimate to higher altitudes ahead.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3540 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Starting from Pisang, you head northwest along the Marsyangdi valley on the most breathtaking leg of your Annapurna Circuit adventure. Enjoy awe-inspiring views of Annapurna II and III, and pass through charming villages like Ghyaru, Ngawal, Humde, and Bhraga, each showcasing Tibetan-influenced culture. A stop at Nyawal lets you explore the Guru Rinpoche Cave. Your day ends in Manang at 3,450 meters, known for its Tibetan heritage, where you’ll stay for three nights to acclimatize before continuing your journey.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today’s journey is a beautiful round-trip ascend to Ice Lake, also known as ‘Khicho Tal,’ located in the Himalayas. Starting from Braga after descending from Manang, we will have a difficult 1,000-meter ascent that will take approximately 5-6 hours. The steep path provides breathtaking views of Tilicho Peak, Annapurna, and Manang Valley. The well-marked track climbs through historical communities and steep meadows to the lake at 4,620 meters. After taking in the amazing view, we’ll start our return journey,

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

This is day 2 of acclimatization in Manang. This day is crucial and allows our body to adjust to the high altitude. We have a variety of options to make the most of this restful day, from leisurely activities like games and reading to exploring the charming town of Manang. Additionally, we’ll visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Clinic, recognizing its vital role in ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors in the Nepali Himalayas. Short hikes to the peaceful Gangapurna Lake and the Bhojo Gompa, a Buddhist educational fortress, are popular among trekkers. Overnight, we will stay in a comfortable teahouse.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4600 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we will leave Charming Village and head towards Thorang La Pass. We start our trek with a little ascent out of the Marsayandi Valley and continue our journey to Jaesang Khola. As we ascend higher, we leave behind the jungle forests and get closer to the Himalayas. After a few hours, we will reach Yak Kharka. Throughout the trekking trail, we will be treated to breathtaking views of Annapurna II, III, and IV, as well as the majestic Gangapurna. Overnight, we will stay at a tea house in Yak Kharka.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 4450 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today on our Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake Trek, we proceed from the scenic Yak Kharka towards our final stop, Thorong Phedi. The path winds through challenging terrain, descending towards the Marsyangdi River. After navigating a wooden bridge, our journey continues for a few hours until we arrive at Thorong Phedi. We will spend the night at a tea house there.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 5416 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We’ll begin our trek from Thorang Phedi to Muktinath. Today, we’ll reach the highest point of our journey: Thorang La Pass at 5416 meters. We’ll start with a small climb, and at the pass, we’ll be treated to an amazing view all around us, with snow-covered peaks extending towards Tibet and the majestic Annapurna range. As we go down, we’ll arrive at Muktinath. overnight we will stay at Muktinath at a tea house.

  • Accommodation Tea House
  • Max Altitude 3800 m
  • Meal Brekfast, Lunch, and Dinner

After breakfast, we’ll visit the Muktinath Temple, a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is surrounded by 108 stone sprouts believed to cleanse all sins when bathed in. We’ll then leave Muktinath and head towards Jomsom, descending significantly in altitude. En route, we’ll stop at Kagbeni, an ancient farming village along the Kali Gandaki River, important for Hindu pilgrims and renowned for its scenic beauty and historic mud buildings. Lunch will be enjoyed in Kagbeni before continuing our drive to Jomsom. Upon arrival, we’ll check into the hotel and head to Dhumba Lake, just 5.5 km from Jomsom, nestled amidst lush pine forests and rocky terrain. This serene spot offers opportunities for a scenic hike or jeep ride. In the evening, explore Jomsom, visit monasteries, shop for organic apples and souvenirs, and spend the night.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 2,743 m
  • Meal Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We will have two options for the journey to Pokhara. Opting for a flight will provide you with a swift 20-minute trip from Jomsom, alternatively, to take a car or jeep, our guide will pick us up from your hotel, and together we’ll embark on an 8-hour road trip to Pokhara. The journey from Jomsom to Pokhara by road takes you through picturesque hilly highways. We’ll make a stop for lunch and relaxation in Tatopani, where you can immerse yourself in the natural hot springs. We’ll then continue our journey to Pokhara, passing through Beni, Baglung, and Kushma, until we finally reach the beautiful city of Pokhara. Upon arrival, you can check in at your hotel overnight we will stay here.

  • Accommodation Star Hotel
  • Max Altitude 1400 m
  • Meal Breakfast

After enjoying breakfast in the morning, we’ll start our journey back to Kathmandu. Our return trip offers the same two options as your journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Upon arrival, you will be transported to your hotel for an overnight stay.

With the remaining time, you can explore the exquisite Kathmandu Durbar Square or other culturally significant sites within the city, which boast a wealth of heritage. Your night will be spent in Kathmandu.

  • Accommodation
  • Max Altitude
  • Meal Breakfast

As our delightful Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek in Nepal concludes, we’ll arrange for your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive approximately 3 hours prior to your flight. It has been our privilege to be a part of your enriching natural and cultural journey, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Inclusions

What’s Included

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation in standard hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara with breakfast included. Lodging in teahouses or trekking lodges during the trek.
  • Transportation: All necessary transportation during the trek, including the drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Nayapool.
  • Domestic Flights (optional): If you choose to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, the cost of the flight is included in the package.
  • Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trek. Meals are typically from a set menu at the teahouses.
  • Experienced Guide: An experienced trekking guide with a good knowledge of the local culture, history, and trekking routes.
  • Porters: Porters to carry your main luggage (up to 10-15 kg per person) during the trek, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack.
  • Trekking Permits: All necessary trekking permits, including the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.
  • Hot Springs: Entry to the natural hot springs in Jhinu Danda.
  • First Aid: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.

What’s Excluded

  • International Flights: The cost of international flights to and from Nepal is not included in the package.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Nepal upon arrival at the airport is not included.
  • Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, and evacuation.
  • Meals in Kathmandu and Pokhara: Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara are not included in the package.
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as additional snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and tips for guides and porters are not included.
  • Additional Activities: Any optional activities, such as paragliding or extra sightseeing in Kathmandu or Pokhara, are not included.
  • Sleeping Bag and Trekking Gear: You may need to rent or purchase trekking gear and a sleeping bag if you do not have your own.
  • Extra Nights: Any additional nights of accommodation in Kathmandu or Pokhara outside the trek itinerary are not included.
  • Extra Costs Due to Delays: Costs incurred due to flight delays, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances are not covered.
  • Personal Medications: Any personal medications or medical expenses are not included.

FAQs

The optimal seasons for embarking on the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek with a visit to Tilicho Lake are spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) as these times offer pleasant temperatures and unobstructed vistas.

The months from March to May typically bring temperatures ranging from 18 to 22°C during the day and 8 to 10°C at night, offering crystal clear views and colorful blossoms of rhododendron and other wildflowers. June to August sees temperatures between 20 and 25°C during the day and 10 to 12°C at night, making it favorable for trekking in the northern areas of the Annapurna trails. September emerges as the most favorable time with temperatures averaging between 18 and 22°C during the day and 8 to 12°C at night. October to November boasts temperatures around 15°C during the day and 7 to 8°C at night, characterized by clear blue skies, minimal haze, and lush vegetation. Finally, from December to February, temperatures range from 7 to 12°C during the day and 2 to 8°C at night, with fewer trekkers on the trails and presenting picturesque landscapes.

Discovery World Trekking will offer one porter for every two trekkers, tasked with transporting a total of 18 kilograms of luggage, with a maximum of 9 kilograms allocated for each trekker.

The Classic Annapurna Circuit presents a moderately demanding trek. Yet, with a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to walk for six to seven hours each day at a steady pace, completing this journey is achievable. It's characterized more by its sense of adventure than by its level of difficulty.

The Classic Annapurna Circuit entails some potential dangers because of its high elevations, severe weather patterns, and the risk of landslides. Therefore, it's important to be cautious. Our trekking team will take measures to ensure your safety during the journey.

The Classic Annapurna Circuit can be found in the Annapurna area situated in west-central Nepal, nestled within the Himalayas.

The optimal period to embark on the Classic Annapurna Circuit trek is typically during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer stable weather conditions and superb visibility, enhancing the trekking experience. Additionally, autumn coincides with festive celebrations in Nepal.

The Annapurna Circuit trail traverses the Thorong La Pass, situated at approximately 5,416 meters (17,769 feet) above sea level, ranking as one of the tallest trekking passes globally. Adequate acclimatization and readiness are essential for navigating these elevated terrains securely.

If you're reasonably fit, completing the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek including Tilicho Lake is feasible. Prior trekking experience isn't necessary, but having a positive mindset and determination greatly help. If you have any preexisting heart, lung, or blood conditions, it's essential to seek medical advice before embarking on this trek.

Yes, having travel insurance is obligatory for undertaking the Classic Annapurna Circuit Trek including Tilicho Lake. Your insurance policy should include provisions for helicopter rescue up to the trek's highest point and should also cover treatment expenses, considering the trek's extreme altitude and isolated location.

Following the initial payment, it is required that you send the subsequent documents via email: a scanned copy of your passport, passport-size photographs, your flight itinerary, and a copy of your travel insurance policy, which should include coverage for helicopter rescue at the maximum trek altitude and medical evacuation.

Although you can't entirely avoid altitude sickness, you can reduce its chances by following certain measures. These include proper acclimatization, walking at a comfortable pace, staying well-hydrated, trekking to higher altitudes but sleeping at lower ones, and eating nutritious meals. Additional guidance on minimizing the risks of altitude sickness will be offered by our guides.

We recommend against consuming water from local sources such as taps, wells, and rivers in trekking regions due to potential contamination. Instead, you can buy bottled mineral water at hotels and stores along the way. However, for environmental reasons, we suggest using a refillable water bottle and filling it with boiled water, which is often accessible at hotels and teahouses.

If you're allergic to certain medications, it's advisable to seek advice from your doctor and ensure you have your own supply of medicines. Most medications can be obtained in Kathmandu at an affordable price.

Indeed, the company makes certain that vegetarian hikers are provided with sufficient nutritious and sanitary vegetarian meals. We carefully choose top-quality lodges and teahouses to ensure that our clients' dietary needs are met.

Certainly, it is possible to hire trekking gear in Nepal, and we can suggest suitable shops in Kathmandu for this service.

Typically, you can access Wi-Fi at most tea houses and lodges during your stay, usually for a nominal fee.