Embark on a classic Himalayan journey around the world's deepest gorge on our 10-day Annapurna Circuit Trek. Starting from Kathmandu and ending in Pokhara, this moderate adventure includes full-board meals, cozy teahouse accommodation, and an expert English-speaking guide. Cross the thrilling
There is something profoundly humbling about walking through a landscape that has inspired pilgrims and traders for centuries. The Annapurna Circuit Trek is not merely a route across the mountains; it is a passage through time, culture, and the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Over 10 days, you will move from the subtropical valleys of Marsyangdi to the high, windswept passes that connect Nepal’s heartland, all while following a path that has welcomed travelers for generations. This journey, beginning in the vibrant chaos of Kathmandu and ending in the serene lakeside calm of Pokhara, offers a complete Himalayan experience without the extreme demands of technical climbing. The contrast is immediate and unforgettable: one morning you are walking through lush rhododendron forests and terraced fields, and a few days later you are standing at Thorong La Pass, where the air thins and the world stretches out in a panorama of ice and rock.
What makes this particular trek so rewarding is the thoughtful balance it strikes between challenge and comfort. We have designed this moderate adventure so you can focus on the unfolding panorama the deep gorge of the Kali Gandaki, the sudden appearance of Annapurna I’s massive face, and the star-filled skies above Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters. Our Team ensures you are well-supported with cozy teahouse stays, full-board meals, and an expert English-speaking guide who knows every stone and story along the way. This is a trek for those who want to push their limits while still enjoying the simple luxuries of a warm bed and a hot meal at day’s end. The route itself is a living museum of Himalayan life, where ancient trade routes meet modern teahouse hospitality, and where every village brings its own character—from the prayer flags of Manang to the apple orchards of Marpha.
From the moment we greet you at the airport, every detail is handled with care. We manage all necessary permits, provide reliable transport from Kathmandu to the trailhead and onward to Pokhara, and include the services of a dedicated porter and guide who are as passionate about these mountains as you are. Whether you are crossing a suspension bridge over a roaring river or sharing tea with a local family in a stone village, you will feel the rhythm of a journey that has been perfected over years of guiding. This is your chance to step into a living landscape where every step tells a story a story of resilience, of natural wonder, and of a path that connects you not just to the mountains, but to the people who call them home.
Extend Your Adventure: Manaslu Circuit & Tilicho Lake
After completing the Manaslu Circuit Trek, you can seamlessly continue your journey into the Annapurna Circuit Trek without returning to Kathmandu. This extension allows you to experience two of Nepal's most iconic trekking regions in a single adventure.
For an even more rewarding experience, you can also include a visit to Tilicho Lake, one of the world's highest alpine lakes. The side trip adds an extra 2–3 days to your itinerary and rewards you with spectacular mountain scenery and a unique Himalayan experience.
Whether you choose to continue with the Annapurna Circuit or add Tilicho Lake, we can customize the itinerary to match your schedule, fitness level, and travel preferences.
Drive from Kathmandu to Dharapani via Besisahar
Today begins with an early breakfast in Kathmandu before we transfer you by tourist bus to Besisahar, the gateway to the Annapurna region. From there, a shared jeep carries you deeper into the valley, winding along the Marsyangdi River through terraced fields and hillside settlements. The drive itself is an introduction to the changing landscape, as subtropical greenery gives way to pine forests and the air grows noticeably thinner. By late afternoon, you arrive in Dharapani, a traditional Gurung village that marks the true start of your trekking adventure.
Dharapani sits at the confluence of the Marsyangdi and Dudh Khola rivers, surrounded by forested slopes and the distant promise of snow-capped peaks. This is where you step off the road and onto the trail that pilgrims and traders have followed for centuries. The village itself is a collection of stone houses and prayer-flagged chortens, offering a warm welcome and a chance to settle into your teahouse. As evening falls, enjoy a hearty meal while your guide briefs you on the days ahead, and listen to the river's steady flow a soothing soundtrack for your first night in the mountains.
Trek from Dharapani to Chame
Your day begins with a gentle ascent through dense pine forests, where the air carries the crisp scent of resin and the sound of the Marsyangdi River grows louder with each step. You will cross several suspension bridges that sway above roaring turquoise waters, offering glimpses of terraced fields and distant peaks. The trail winds through small Gurung and Manangi villages, where whitewashed houses with prayer flags flutter in the breeze. After roughly five to six hours of walking, you arrive in Chame, the administrative center of the Manang district. Here, you can soak in natural hot springs that soothe tired muscles while gazing up at the dramatic face of Lamjung Himal.
Chame marks a noticeable shift in landscape and culture. The valley narrows, and the vegetation becomes sparser as you gain altitude. Your guide will point out the changing architecture, with stone roofs replacing thatch, and the increasing number of mani walls and chortens that mark the path. This is a good place to pause and acclimatize, as the elevation here sits above 2,600 meters. The teahouse in Chame offers warm meals and a chance to swap stories with fellow trekkers before the next stage of your journey into higher terrain.
Trek from Chame to Pisang
Today’s walk begins along the broad valley floor of the Marsyangdi River, where the trail winds through scattered apple orchards and past the striking Paungda Danda rock face. This massive, smooth slab of granite rises abruptly from the valley, a dramatic reminder of the geological forces that shaped this region. The path is relatively gentle, following the river’s course as it meanders through terraced fields and small settlements, where you can pause to admire the changing vegetation as altitude gradually increases. The walking hours today are around five to six, allowing for a steady pace with plenty of time to absorb the evolving scenery.
As you approach the twin villages of Pisang, the trail presents a choice: the upper route climbs to a cluster of traditional stone houses perched on a hillside, while the lower path stays closer to the river. Both options reward you with commanding views of Annapurna II, whose snowy peak dominates the northern horizon. The upper Pisang route offers a more panoramic perspective, with the mountain’s sharp ridges and glaciers clearly visible against the deep blue sky. This is a day of transition, where the subtropical feel of lower elevations gives way to the drier, more alpine character of the Manang region, setting the stage for the higher passes ahead.
Trek from Pisang to Manang
Today’s walk from Pisang to Manang is one of the most visually rewarding days on the Annapurna Circuit, as the valley opens wide and the great peaks of the Annapurna range begin to dominate the horizon. You will leave the charming village of Pisang, with its distinctive red-roofed houses and ancient prayer wheels, and follow a gently ascending trail that hugs the eastern bank of the Marsyangdi River. The path offers two main options: a lower route through the forested hillside or a higher, more challenging variant that rewards you with sweeping views of Annapurna II, III, and the iconic peak of Pisang Peak. Either way, you can expect about 5 to 6 hours of steady walking, with plenty of time to pause and absorb the changing landscape.
As you approach Manang, the scenery transforms into a high-altitude desert of glacial moraines and hardy juniper scrub, framed by the immense south face of Annapurna I. Manang itself is a bustling hub for trekkers, perched at 3,540 meters and surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the turquoise waters of Gangapurna Lake. This is a critical acclimatization stop, and our expert guide will encourage you to take it easy, hydrate well, and perhaps enjoy a short afternoon walk to explore the ancient monastery or the nearby icefall. The evening here is special: the air is thin and clear, the stars emerge brilliantly, and the cozy teahouse chatter blends with the distant rumble of glacial streams.
Acclimatization Day in Manang
Your rest day in Manang is one of the most important stops on the Annapurna Circuit. At 3,540 meters, this village is the perfect place to give your body time to adjust to the thinning air. We schedule this day deliberately, so you can wake up slowly, enjoy a hearty breakfast in your teahouse, and take a gentle stroll through the stone-paved streets lined with prayer wheels and mani walls. The surrounding landscape is dramatic, with towering peaks like Gangapurna and Annapurna III forming a natural amphitheater around you.
For those who want to stay active, optional hikes offer incredible rewards without overexerting yourself. A popular choice is the walk to Gangapurna Lake, a serene glacial lake just an hour or so from Manang. The trail leads through juniper scrub and past small chortens, and the sight of the turquoise water backed by icefalls is unforgettable. A longer option is the hike to Ice Lake, which climbs higher for panoramic views of the entire Manang Valley. Both hikes help your body acclimatize naturally while treating you to perspectives that few trekkers experience from the main trail.
The afternoon is yours to explore Manang’s small but fascinating Himalayan Rescue Association clinic, where you can learn more about altitude sickness prevention, or simply relax with a cup of ginger tea in a sunny courtyard. Your guide will be on hand to answer questions and help you gauge how you are feeling. This rest day is not just about waiting—it is about preparing mind and body for the challenge of Thorong La Pass, which lies just a few days ahead. The star-filled skies above Manang at night are a quiet reminder of the immense landscape you are moving through.
Trek from Manang to Yak Kharka
Gradually ascend through arid terrain with yak pastures and juniper trees. The trail offers close-up views of Annapurna III and Gangapurna. This day’s walk takes roughly four to five hours, depending on your pace and how often you pause to take in the landscape. The air grows thinner as you gain elevation, and the vegetation shifts from dense forest to sparse, wind-sculpted shrubs. You will notice the quiet settling around you, broken only by the sound of prayer flags flapping and the distant creak of glacial ice.
As you move higher, the mountains seem to close in, revealing the sheer scale of Annapurna III’s north face and the jagged peaks of Gangapurna. The trail follows a rocky path that winds through remnants of old moraine, with occasional stone chortens marking the way. Yaks graze in the high pastures, their bells chiming softly, and the juniper trees release a fragrant scent that lingers in the crisp air. This is a day for slow, steady progress, allowing your body to adapt while your eyes feast on the unfolding drama of the Himalayas.
Trek from Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi
A short but steep climb brings you to Thorong Phedi, the last stop before the pass. Sitting at roughly 4,540 meters, this small settlement clings to the mountainside and serves as the final staging ground for the crossing that awaits. The trail from Manang winds through sparse juniper and scrub, gradually revealing the immense scale of the surrounding peaks. As you ascend, the air thins and the landscape becomes more austere, with rock and ice dominating the horizon. Thorong Phedi itself is a humble cluster of teahouses, where trekkers gather to rest, hydrate, and share quiet anticipation. The afternoon is yours to prepare mentally and physically for the next day's challenge, whether by reviewing gear, sipping warm drinks, or simply taking in the stark beauty of the high-altitude world.
The evening here is a time of focused calm. Your guide will review the plan for the early morning start, emphasizing pacing, hydration, and layering to manage the cold and altitude. The teahouse offers a comfortable, if basic, refuge—a warm dining room, hearty dal bhat or noodle soup, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers all facing the same goal. Sleep comes early, as the pre-dawn departure demands rest. The murmur of wind and the distant creak of glacial ice are the only sounds outside. This night, perched at the threshold of the Thorong La, marks the culmination of days of steady climbing and the beginning of the trek’s most defining moment.
Cross Thorong La Pass to Muktinath
Start well before dawn, as an early departure is essential for crossing Thorong La Pass safely. The trail climbs steadily from Thorong Phedi, passing through a stark, windswept landscape of moraine and rock before reaching the pass at 5,416 meters. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and the vast Tibetan plateau stretching to the north. After taking in the moment and snapping photos at the prayer flags, the descent begins—a long, switchbacking path that drops more than 1,600 meters into the arid Mustang region. The total walking time for the day is around 8 to 9 hours, so steady pacing and proper hydration are key.
The trail leads you into the sacred village of Muktinath, a place of deep spiritual significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. Here, you can visit the temple complex with its 108 water spouts, where pilgrims bathe in the freezing waters for blessings and purification. The temple’s eternal flame, fed by natural gas, adds to the mystical atmosphere. After the high-altitude exertion of the pass, Muktinath offers a gentle transition, with its dry, desert-like terrain and views of the Kali Gandaki Valley below. You will spend the night in a comfortable teahouse, reflecting on the day’s achievement and the cultural richness of this unique Himalayan stop.
Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom
Follow the Kali Gandaki River through a stark, wind-swept valley. Jomsom is a lively town with an airstrip, offering a taste of Mustang's unique culture.
Drive from Jomsom to Pokhara: Scenic Journey Through the Kali Gandaki Valley
This morning you depart Jomsom, leaving behind the high-altitude desert and beginning a scenic drive that carves south through the Kali Gandaki Valley. The road follows the river as it cuts between the colossal peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, offering some of the most dramatic mountain views of the entire journey. As you descend, the landscape shifts gradually from windswept, arid cliffs and rocky plateaus into terraced hillsides and dense pine forests, a welcome return to greener, more temperate surroundings.
The drive includes a stop at Ghasa, a small settlement that marks a noticeable transition point. Here, the air feels more humid and the vegetation grows thicker, with apple orchards and wildflowers lining the trail. It is also a wonderful place to pause and sample local apple brandy or fresh apple cider from small roadside shops, a traditional treat of the lower Mustang region. The road continues past waterfalls and small villages, each with its own character and stone houses, before the valley widens and the pace of life slows.
By late afternoon, you arrive in Pokhara, a serene lakeside town that feels worlds away from the mountain trails. The journey from Jomsom to Pokhara is not merely a transfer; it is a final, living panorama of the Kali Gandaki’s immense scale and beauty. Check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps strolling along the shores of Phewa Lake or finding a rooftop restaurant to reflect on the epic circuit you have just completed.
$1,050
$999
$950
$915
$899
$860
Included
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Before you go
Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS Card)
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Request a custom date →Highly recommended for anyone planning a trek in Nepal!
“We had the pleasure of doing the Manaslu Circuit trek with Touch The Himalaya Treks & Expedition and it was one of the best decisions of our trip to Nepal. From the very beginning, the terms of cooperation were clear and transparent. Communication via WhatsApp was fast and smooth, and everything was well organized, allowing us to fully focus on the trekking experience. We also had a porter who supported us throughout the trek, which made a big difference in comfort and allowed us to better enjoy the experience. Special thanks to our guide Roshan — he was professional, calm, and very attentive. At the same time, he was extremely positive and easy to talk to, always engaging with us and explaining what to expect each day of the trek. Thanks to him, we felt comfortable, safe, and well taken care of throughout the entire journey. The agency is reliable, well-organized, and truly cares about its clients. Everything went exactly as planned. ”
Elina Umarova
Incredible Hike with the Best guide!!
“"Highly recommend this company.! We booked our Manaslu Circuit hike in the main office in Kathmandu, after going round a few different companies we settled for Manaslu Guides because this one just felt right. Having spoke with the owner in the office he tailor-made a trek for our needs. Madan, the owner is really helpful and honest and a pleasure to meet. We completed the Manaslu Circuit yesterday with our guide Bikram who was amazing! Such a lovely guy really and a great guide. We really felt comfortable with him and we learnt alot from him, and even gained a friend. We couldn't have asked for a guide more suited to us. Bikram is a humble guy and made us smile every day, and he even played the wooden flute at different times on the hike, sometimes in the morning and when we reached beautiful spots on the hike which really elevated our experience in such dramatic landscapes. We cannot praise him enough. We loved the trek and with Bikram, it made it even more special. Thanks again!" Date of experience: March 2026”
Rhodesy100
Tour around Kathmandu
“Superb day to discover beautiful sites! Recommended 👍👌”
Carine
Wonderful Manang and mustang tour!:)
“I traveled with a friend from Bangladesh on two separate overland Jeep tours to Manang and Mustang, organized by Touch The Himalaya. Both trips were incredibly enjoyable, and everything was handled smoothly and professionally by Madan from the company. We truly appreciated the well-managed arrangements and would highly recommend Touch The Himalaya for anyone planning an overland tour in Nepal. Thank you, Madan and the team at Touch The Himalaya!”
Bitter king
Fantastic experience
“May 2026 • Friends Madan in the office made it very easy to manage the administrative side of travelling to Nepal to complete the Manaslu circuit. From visas, to trekking permits to accommodation on arrival, it all went without a hitch. It was no problem for Madan to alter our itinerary to add in two extra days for side walks and when one of our group had to pull out at the last minute, that too was handled with equanimity with Madan offering to hold the deposit for a future trip. He was very responsive with communication via WhatsApp and email and answered any query about gear, hygiene etc within 24 hrs. Our superlative guide was Roshan, a young Nepali so full of energy, humour and enthusiasm. He constantly worked to ensure our experience was perfect. Regularly informing us about what was happening next, seeking consensus on the next day’s plan and constantly checking in on how we were going were second nature to him. When one of the hotels had an issue with water in the bathroom he didn’t hesitate to move us to a better hotel across the road. Our two porters, Bir and Shuper were equally awesome, always attentive to our needs and going above and beyond to ensure our comfort. Travelling from Australia with it’s highest point only 2500m our small group of three had prepared for the physical challenge of the Manaslu circuit but apprehension remained regarding how we would handle the altitude. However, Roshan was always there, encouraging us to climb higher to ever more beautiful vantage points in the afternoons, when we could have been tempted to rest after completing the morning trek to our next, increasingly awesome destination. Sleeping each night at a lower altitude accelerated our acclimatisation giving us confidence for the final assault over the pass. I can’t say it was easy but resting at 5160m looking at the stunning Himalayan peaks, we felt on top of the world, both physically and mentally, and proud of our achievement. It was obvious too that Roshan, Shuper and Bir genuinely shared that pride and joy in getting us over the pass. From airport pickup to drop off, the whole experience was seamless. By the end, our group was tight-knit and firm friends. There had never been a hint of conflict and although sad to leave each other behind we were buoyed by our shared experience and memories. The Nepali people are wonderful and the profound beauty of the walk, both natural and cultural, is overwhelming - a peak life experience. I couldn’t recommend doing the Manaslu circuit more highly and I would certainly recommend trusting your experience to Madan and his team at Manaslu Guides/ Touching the Himalayas. When I get home I am telling my sons and their friends that they just have to do it!”
Simon L
Kathmandu tour & Mt. Kailash Yatra June 2025
“A group of 4 of us went on a pilgrimage tour to Kathmandu and Tibet for Kailash Yatra from 3rd - 16th June 2025.The organiser, Touch the Himalaya Expedition & Trek Pvt Ltd, Nepal planned the whole journey very well and the cost was cheaper compared to the other organisers. We definitely recommend this company for those planning to visit various destinations in Nepal and the Kailash Yatra in Tibet. ”
Elanghovan
Amazing solo trek to Annapurna Base Camp
“Reviewed October 24, 2025 via mobile I’m very happy that I decided to book my ABC-trek with Touch The Himalaya. Mr. Madan was always available to answer any questions that I had and it made me feel very safe traveling alone as a woman. My guide Rishi took good care of me for the nine days we were on the trek, he knew all the best places to stay and to eat. He made my morning at Poon Hill very special by heading up there extra early to enjoy the sunrise over the Himalayas before it got too crowded. And we also reached Annapurna Base Camp on the clearest day ever! Even after the trek, both Mr. Madan and Rishi, made sure I was okay in Pokhara by myself and told me to call if I needed anything. Also Mr. Madan made sure my stuff that I left in Kathmandu arrived to my hotel when I got back. I highly recommend booking a trip with Touch The Himalaya! Definitely 10 out of 10! Date of experience: October 2025”
Nami K
Traveler ratings for the guides on this trek.
The whole experience was amazing!
“The whole experience was amazing! We were happy to have our guide with us, he was full of knowledge and we felt safe with him. He was almost like part of our family, we could talk honestly and have fun together. The whole trek was well planned and they happily agreed to change things if needed. I would advise Touch The Himalaya to anyone who wants to go trekking as it satisfied all of our expectations.”
michal palik
One of the most epic trips I’ve taken
“My Annapurna Circuit trek with Guide Moti was truly an unforgettable experience. Everything was perfectly organized by Manaslu Guides Nepal and organizer Madan Neupane. Guide Moti Neupane was professional, friendly, and always supportive throughout the trek. He made me feel safe, comfortable, and happy every single day. From the beautiful villages to the incredible views of the Himalayas, every moment became special because of his guidance and positive energy. Crossing Thorong La Pass was one of the greatest achievements of my life, and I am very thankful to Moti and the whole team for making this journey so memorable. I highly recommend them to anyone planning a trek in Nepal. Elina, Kyrgyzstan ”
Elina Umarova
Annapurna Circuit - the best!
“I had an amazing experience with Touch the Himalayas on the Annapurna Circuit (with Thorong La Pass)! Our guide, Rushan, was exceptional. His expertise and genuine care for our group of 10 made the trek smooth and enjoyable. He kept us well-informed about the trail, the local culture, and always checked in to make sure everyone was doing well. The teahouses he organised were thoughtfully chosen, offering great food and comfortable accommodations after a day of hiking. A special thanks also to our porters, Nissan and Suppa, who worked tirelessly to carry our gear and made sure we had everything we needed. This was truly an unforgettable adventure, full of fun, and incredible landscapes and views. If you’re planning the Annapurna Circuit, I cannot recommend Touch the Himalayas enough. It’s an amazing, amazing experience.”
Lucy P
Trekking in March
“We were on a trekking in March 2025 with a family and friends. Our trek was from Chame to Manang and back. Our guide was Moti, who orginised everything for us. He was kind, helpful and we felt looked after all the time to admire beautiful villages and nature. We recommend Moti as a guide!”
Anna R
Highly recommend - amazing team and service!
“I had a wonderful experience on my Annapurna Circuit trip! Even from before booking, the staff were incredibly helpful - clearly explaining and planning all the details of the route and offering great advice on what equipment to bring and how to prep. Everything from permits to accommodation was taken care of for me, making the process smooth and stress-free. My guide, Arjun, went above and beyond to ensure I had the best experience possible, always accommodating any extra needs I had along the way. I highly recommend booking any treks or trips with Touch the Himalaya—their knowledge, professionalism, and customer service are outstanding!”
Francia B
Wonderful Manang and mustang tour!:)
“I traveled with a friend from Bangladesh on two separate overland Jeep tours to Manang and Mustang, organized by Touch The Himalaya. Both trips were incredibly enjoyable, and everything was handled smoothly and professionally by Madan from the company. We truly appreciated the well-managed arrangements and would highly recommend Touch The Himalaya for anyone planning an overland tour in Nepal. Thank you, Madan and the team at Touch The Himalaya!”
Bitter king
The whole experience was amazing!
“The whole experience was amazing! We were happy to have our guide with us, he was full of knowledge and we felt safe with him. He was almost like part of our family, we could talk honestly and have fun together. The whole trek was well planned and they happily agreed to change things if needed. I would advise Touch The Himalaya to anyone who wants to go trekking as it satisfied all of our expectations.”
michalpalik
Highly recommended for anyone planning a trek in Nepal!
“We had the pleasure of doing the Manaslu Circuit trek with Touch The Himalaya Treks & Expedition and it was one of the best decisions of our trip to Nepal. From the very beginning, the terms of cooperation were clear and transparent. Communication via WhatsApp was fast and smooth, and everything was well organized, allowing us to fully focus on the trekking experience. We also had a porter who supported us throughout the trek, which made a big difference in comfort and allowed us to better enjoy the experience. Special thanks to our guide Roshan — he was professional, calm, and very attentive. At the same time, he was extremely positive and easy to talk to, always engaging with us and explaining what to expect each day of the trek. Thanks to him, we felt comfortable, safe, and well taken care of throughout the entire journey. The agency is reliable, well-organized, and truly cares about its clients. Everything went exactly as planned.”
Elina Umarova
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