Mini Annapurna Circuit

Arrival

Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel.

Drive to Besisahar, trek to Bhulbule

We leave Kathmandu this morning and drive westwards through the beautiful mountain landscapes of Central Nepal, towered by the peaks of the Ganesh Himal and the Manaslu range. We drive to the road head near Besisahar (760m) and after lunch begin our trek up to the Gurung village of Khudi (790m), continuing North along the Marsyangdi Valley to Bhulbule.

Jagat

The climb up to the village of Bahundana starts after crossing the Marsyangdi River on a high suspension bridge. This trail passes through the village of Lampata and along we have spectacular views of Manaslu (8156m). Descending from Bauhundanda to the river, the trail then undulates to Syange, where we cross the Marsyangdi River again on a suspension bridge. The trail now climbs again to the village of Jagat.

Dharapani

As we continue following the Marsyangdi River upstream, the trail undulates through villages and forest. We pass through small settlements and cross the river back and forth, as we make our way up the valley to our final destination at Dharapani.

Chame

Continuing north our trail continues climbing mostly through forest and at Bagarchap we get a glimpse of the mountains ahead. It’s a fairly easy day today and we stay at Chame, a large village and the administrative centre of the area.

Pisang

Today we leave the village and cross to the northern side of the river, continuing our walk through forest high above until we reach the apple orchards around Brathang, a former Khampa settlement at 2840m. Just past the village we cross the river and have a steep climb through fir and pine forest. Looking back there are stunning views of a huge rock face called Paungdi Danda. Emerging from the forest we descend gently through Dudh Pokhari, with its collection of lodges and bakeries, to Pisang for the night. We are now almost above the tree line and the Annapurnas begin to tower above us. The landscape is now more akin to Tibet with fantastic rock formations and flat roofed stone houses. The energetic can walk to Upper Pisang this afternoon and visit the small monastery.

Manang

There are two options today. For the energetic there is a longer walk via the villages of Ngawal and Gyaru to Braga or we can take the easier trail which climbs gradually out of the valley and descends past the airstrip at Hongdi to Braga. Braga is a wonderful Tibetan style village. Here we find a collection of interestingly stacked houses and the largest monastery in the region, which has a wonderful collection of statues and old weapons. A little further is Manang, our destination for the day.

Rest day

A rest day for acclimatisation. We can hike up to a small temple above the village for great views of Gangapurna and the Great Barrier across the valley. The huge glacier of Gangapurna tumbles down into a large glacial lake. In the afternoon we can explore the village and have coffee and cakes at one of the many bakeries.

Trek to Yak Kharka

We take a gradual ascent to Tengi (3620m) and start a slow climb towards Gunsang (3930m). Continuing further, there are great views of the peaks of Gangapurna (7454m) and Annapurna III (7555m). The trail ascends all morning to Yak Kharka. We should reach our lodge by lunchtime and in the afternoon the energetic can hike up in the surrounding hills.

Trek to Phedi

We continue to climb along the Jarsang Khola, making our way to the settlement at Thorong Phedi (4450m). This is the start point for the next day’s trek over the Thorong La.

Cross Thorong La and trek to Muktinath

A very early start today as we have a long climb up to the Thorong La. It will take 4-6 hours to reach the top of the pass. The trail climbs steeply for the first hour to a higher tea house. The gradient eases a little as we gain height. Looking back we can see the sun rise over the Annapurna behind us. Slowly we wind our way to the top. There are a few false summits but finally the colourful prayer flags marking the top come into view. And what a view – ahead we look towards the Kali Gandaki and behind the vast peaks of the Great Barrier. There is a small tea shop at the top for a welcome cup of hot chocolate. From the pass we descend to Muktinath. The descent is long and steepish in parts but we have stunning views of Dhaulagiri (8167m) and Tukuche Peak (6920m) in the background as we descend.

Jomosom

Today is the last day of the trek as we head towards Jomosom. It’s an easy trail passing through the settlement of Jharkot (3550m) down to the Kali Gandaki Valley. The wind blown rock formations surrounding us are reminiscent of Tibet. The last part of our walk takes us along the rocky Kali Gandaki to the town of Jomosom.

Flight to Pokhara.

After breakfast, take a scenic flight from Jomsom to Pokhara. Upon arrival, spend the day exploring Pokhara's vibrant attractions. Visit Phewa Lake, take a boat ride, or stroll along the Lakeside area. You can also explore Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, or enjoy panoramic views from the World Peace Pagoda

Flight to Kathmandu

Take an early morning flight to Kathmandu. After checking in at the hotel, enjoy a free day exploring local markets, especially Thamel, known for its vibrant atmosphere, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Relax at a café, shop for unique gifts, or experience local culture.

Depart Kathmandu

Depart Kathmandu or extend your stay.